Border Withdrawal Deadline Passes Amid Heightened Attention
SA KAEO, Oct 10 (TNA) - The Thai-Cambodian border remains a focus of concern after the October 10 deadline for settlers to withdraw from the Ban Nong Chan area passed.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul chaired a National Security Council (NSC) meeting today to acknowledge the Army's highly confidential operational plan for border zone management, specifically addressing Cambodian encroachment in Sa Kaeo province.
Anutin confirmed the plan is fully prepared but refused to release details or comment on whether the action could provoke conflict.
NSC Secretary-General Chatchai Bangchuad stated the meeting focused on four key demands, including mine clearance and the border management of Ban Nong Chan, but confirmed no new eviction orders were issued for the Cambodian settlers.
The Burapha Task Force deployed surveillance drones over the Nong Ya Kaew area and detected unusual movement: a large gathering of Cambodian nationals—including military personnel, civilians, and monks—converging near the border fence.
Describing the area as a flashpoint for frequent encroachment, Thai authorities immediately dispatched rapid-response units and increased patrols. As the deadline expired, large public notices were posted, reiterating Thailand's demand for the settlers to leave under the September General Border Committee (GBC) agreement.
Military presence remains robust. Col. Chainarong Kasee is overseeing preparations for scheduled mine-clearing. First Army Region Commander, Lt. Gen. Worayot Lueangsuwan, is expected to arrive to take personal command if the situation escalates.
