BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai Army has warned that Cambodia’s action in allegedly blocking thousands of Thai citizens from returning home at the Poipet border crossing could amount to unlawful detention of civilians and potential war crimes.
The blockade is also preventing Cambodian nationals who wish to return to their country from crossing back.
Major General Winthai Suvaree, spokesman for the Royal Thai Army (RTA), stated that obstructing the return of Thai nationals—estimated at 7,000 to 8,000 seeking to cross—violates fundamental human rights and international humanitarian law.
Citing Cambodia’s obligations under the Geneva Conventions, the RTA urged Phnom Penh to immediately facilitate the return of its citizens to avoid severe violations of international law. (TNA)
