BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Army has confirmed that four soldiers were injured by a landmine explosion during a routine patrol in the Huai Ta Maria area, Kantharalak district, Sisaket province, on November 10. The patrol took place in an area previously secured by Thai forces following the withdrawal of Cambodian troops in October. One soldier suffered a leg amputation, another sustained chest trauma, a third was injured by shrapnel, and the fourth experienced eye irritation from dust or explosive residue.
A joint investigation team—consisting of military personnel, explosive ordnance disposal officers, forensic police, and local law enforcement—inspected the blast site later that afternoon. The officials discovered a crater roughly 55 centimeters wide and 18 centimeters deep, containing fragments of a PMN-2 anti-personnel mine. Three additional PMN-2 mines were found planted about one meter from the detonation point.
The Army said the mines were recently placed following the illegal removal of barbed wire fencing installed by Thai forces after retaking control of the area. The explosives were positioned along a known patrol route, indicating an intentional effort to target Thai personnel.
Military officials stated this act constitutes a breach of a jointly signed agreement with Cambodia and undermines efforts to maintain stability along the border. The placement of new landmines in Thai territory has been deemed a hostile act showing clear intent to harm.
The Royal Thai Army warned that the incident may affect Thailand’s ongoing cooperation with Cambodia, saying it constitutes a serious breach of trust and could lead to the termination of current bilateral agreements on border security. (NNT)
