Thai Police warn of Cambodian espionage near border — public urged to report suspicious activity using 5 key tips

BANGKOK, Thailand –The Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police Office revealed acts that constitute espionage, involving secretly sending security and operational information of Thai officials to Cambodia. The highest penalty for such acts is death. The police urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious information by calling 1599.

On July 27, Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat Deepho, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police Bureau, stated that Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, Commissioner, is deeply concerned about the situation at the Thai–Cambodian border. There may be hostile groups clandestinely sending security and operational information of Thai officials to Cambodia, which could jeopardize the safety of officials, citizens, and national security.



The Royal Thai Police request cooperation from the public to observe behaviors that may indicate espionage activities as follows:

1. Gathering strategic information — secretly photographing or filming military bases, strategic points, or supply and weapons transport routes.
2. Monitoring official movements — observing troop movements or the deployment of military equipment of security agencies.
3. Unusual behaviors — frequent photography in certain areas, approaching operational zones without valid reasons, or aimlessly surveying areas.
4. Unauthorized access to restricted areas — appearing in evacuated zones or during unusual hours such as nighttime without permission.
5. Possession of suspicious equipment — such as binoculars, strategic maps, area layouts, or GPS tracking devices.

Such acts are considered serious crimes under the Penal Code, Chapter 3, “Offenses Against National Security of the Kingdom,” and may result in the highest penalty of death.

The police urge the public to immediately report any suspicious activities or persons suspected of spying and sending sensitive information about Thai officials or national security to Cambodia. Reports can be made to security personnel, military, police, or via hotlines 191 and the Royal Thai Police hotline 1599, available 24 hours a day.