Bangkok Post
Troop build-ups on both sides of the Thai-Cambodian border have heightened fears of clashes following Thailand’s withdrawal from Unesco’s World Heritage Convention.
Army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha said he had ordered troops stationed along the border to be prepared as the chance of clashes was high.
His comments came after the Second Army reported Cambodia was bringing in more troops to the border yesterday.
Gen Prayuth said he had decided to boost Thailand’s troops and reinforce bunkers as a precaution. The moves were purely defensive and not intended to indicate military aggression.
The army chief stressed troops were duty-bound to protect the country’s sovereignty.
”If Thailand’s sovereignty is violated, soldiers can use their weapons straight away,” Gen Prayuth said.
The army chief said Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva had also ordered the army to be on full alert along the maritime border with Cambodia off Chanthaburi and Trat.
Gen Prayuth said Thai and Cambodian soldiers have been in contact on a regular basis since the last border clashes.
”Admittedly there is some distrust between the two sides. Troops from both sides are positioned close to each other. Chances of military clashes are high,” Gen Prayuth said.
No comments:
Post a Comment