SURIN/PATTAYA — Thai police and security forces in Surin province apprehended a Cambodian spy on July 27, intensifying concerns over espionage amid ongoing clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border. The suspect was arrested at Ban Ta Miang, Phanom Dong Rak district, driving a bronze Toyota Vios bearing license plate from Sa Kaeo province. Authorities say the suspect was secretly photographing key locations to relay information to Cambodia during the border conflict. Investigations are ongoing.
In response to rising threats, the Royal Thai Police have issued a public warning urging citizens to remain alert for espionage activities that could compromise national security. Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat Deepho, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police Bureau, stressed the seriousness of such acts, which can carry the death penalty under the Penal Code.
Police outlined five key signs for the public to watch for:
- Secretly photographing or filming military bases, strategic sites, or transport routes.
- Monitoring troop movements or military deployments without permission.
- Frequent or suspicious photography or surveying in restricted areas.
- Unauthorized entry into restricted or evacuated zones, especially at unusual hours.
- Carrying suspicious equipment such as binoculars, strategic maps, or GPS devices.
Authorities urge anyone who notices suspicious behavior or individuals to report immediately to local police, military, or via the 24-hour hotlines 191 and 1599.
“These espionage activities threaten the safety of our officials and citizens, as well as national security,” Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat said. “We call on all members of the public to cooperate closely with security agencies during this critical time.”
The recent arrest in Surin underscores the urgency of community vigilance as tensions remain high along the Thai-Cambodian border.
