NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand – Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Region, affirmed that Thai troops will not withdraw from the Thai-Cambodian border area, stating, “We are operating within our own sovereign territory.”
Speaking about the ongoing Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) talks in Malaysia, Lt. Gen. Boonsin said he remains hopeful for a positive outcome but emphasized that much depends on whether both nations can accept each other’s conditions. “If mutual terms are agreed upon, the issue can be resolved quickly,” he noted, though he added that nothing can be predicted at this point.
In response to concerns over possible tensions after the talks conclude on August 7, he said any escalation depends on the decisions of both countries’ leadership.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin also confirmed that both Thai and Cambodian forces have been adhering to the agreed ceasefire to maintain peace along the border. However, he acknowledged ongoing problems with unidentified drones in the area. The 2nd Army Region is coordinating with all relevant agencies to resolve the issue, and the situation has since improved.
He revealed that the army is monitoring individuals suspected of espionage or sabotage. In some cases, drones appear to be used simply to provoke or disturb rather than collect intelligence.
Regarding the recent arrest of a Cambodian national caught flying a drone over Royal Thai Air Force Wing 5, Lt. Gen. Boonsin said the matter is now under police investigation and urged fairness in handling the case. Drone flights are currently banned in the area and viewed with suspicion.
The commander also confirmed that he has requested Cambodian authorities to collect the bodies of fallen soldiers along the border, citing public health concerns if the bodies are left to decay. Cambodian forces have reportedly begun removing them.
On troop welfare, he stated that military medics are providing necessary healthcare to Thai soldiers, and the situation is improving. Cambodian forces have also started transporting their wounded and deceased with ambulances, a measure previously agreed upon between both sides, with Thailand facilitating the process.
Following the briefing, Lt. Gen. Boonsin accepted donations of food and daily necessities from Col. Chawalit Boonyomanee, representing the Yu Sa-ard Market community, to support Thai soldiers stationed at the border. (TNA)
