NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand – At the Second Army Headquarters, Suranaree Camp, Nakhon Ratchasima, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the Second Army Region, spoke about the recent Thai-Cambodian border clashes.
He estimated Cambodian military losses at approximately 3,000 soldiers, attributing this to their heavy use of force during operations. He expressed sympathy but acknowledged the Cambodian troops were following orders from their leadership.
Regarding drone activity along the border, Lt. Gen. Boonsin confirmed a significant increase in drone flights near Thai positions, including airports, ammunition depots, military housing, and hospitals. He said authorities are coordinating with 14 provinces to deploy anti-drone measures and identify drone operators, urging law enforcement to thoroughly investigate suspects without prematurely attributing the incidents to mental health issues.
He believes Cambodian forces are deliberately using drones to locate Thai hospitals for targeted attacks and warned that future warfare might require underground command centers.
On the status of the Prasat Ta Kwai and Prasat Ta Muen Thom temples in Surin province, he explained that Cambodian forces launched large-scale assaults with thousands of soldiers aiming to capture Prasat Ta Muen Thom but Thai forces successfully defended it. Discussions are underway on whether to completely restrict access or partially allow passage, pending committee decisions.
Prasat Ta Kwai remains under strong Cambodian military control, with heavily fortified defenses and minefields. Thai troops have attempted to retake it four times without success and currently hold positions just 30 meters from the site. Lt. Gen. Boonsin reaffirmed the determination to reclaim this historic site.
He noted that morale among Thai troops along the border remains high, with injured soldiers returning to duty as soon as possible.
Finally, Lt. Gen. Boonsin mentioned he has 51 days left before retirement and vowed to serve to the best of his ability during this final period, expressing confidence in the younger generation of soldiers.
