Thailand chooses location for initial barb-wired boundary with Cambodia
In a move aimed at enhancing security and preventing incursions, Thailand has announced plans to extend a border fence along its entire boundary with Cambodia. The initial segment of this fence will be erected in the Khok Sung district of Sa Kaeo province, following approval from the National Security Council (NSC).
The decision to construct the fence comes after a survey conducted by Gen Manas Jundee, the RTAF chief-of-staff, who led a delegation to assess potential locations in Aranyaprathet. The area was chosen because it is not disputed territory, with the Promhod canal and the Sisophon River marking natural boundaries.
The first section of the barbed wire fence between Thailand and Cambodia will span a 14-kilometer stretch between boundary markers 50 and 51 in Aranyaprathet district. In disputed zones, Thailand will build three layers of barbed wire as temporary barriers, complemented by strategic roads and possibly security cameras.
However, the construction of structures in contested areas could potentially worsen tensions between the two countries, according to Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The declaration of Khok Sung as a peacekeeping zone by the Burapha Task Force is essential for ensuring Thai safety from threats emanating from Cambodia.
Maj Gen Benchapol Dechatiwong na Ayutthaya, commander of the Burapha Task Force, signed the directive for the peacekeeping zone. The zone bans weapons, firearm replicas, photo shoots at military bases, blocking roads, alcoholic beverages, and loudspeakers without prior authorisation.
Locals in Khok Sung have confronted each other over Thailand's right to install the barrier. This confrontation followed Cambodians protesting Thailand's temporary border barrier. The peacekeeping zone is in effect to maintain order and ensure the safety of all parties involved.
The RTAF is prepared to start building the fence within this year, with no issues with the budget. The fence project marks the beginning of a comprehensive barrier along the Thai-Cambodian border, aiming to prevent incursions, security threats, and enhance safety in border regions.
The construction of the fence in Khok Sung comes after it was declared a peacekeeping zone by the Burapha Task Force. The area is currently under martial law, granting the military authority over security matters. The peacekeeping zone is crucial for maintaining peace and order in the region, particularly in light of recent tensions.
