"Current martial law is in effect" in 7 districts of Chanthaburi province and 1 district of Trat province, the Commander of the Thai Border Guard Command in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces announced on July 25.
According to Thai media, the districts that have implemented martial law in Chanthaburi province include: Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Makham, Laem Sing, Kaeng Hang Maew, Na Yai Am and Khao Khitchakut. In Trat province, martial law will take effect in Khao Saming district.
The announcement said the deployment of military forces is necessary to protect Thailand from external threats. The declaration of martial law is a necessary act to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, as well as the lives and property of Thai citizens.
The most recent martial law decree issued by Thailand in parts of the country was on December 31, 2007.
On the same day, July 25, the Thai Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment ordered the closure of 6 conservation areas along the border with Cambodia. These reserves include: Phu Chong-Na Yoi National Park (Ubon Ratchathani province), Yod Dom Wildlife Reserve (Ubon Ratchathani province), Khao Phra Wihan National Park ( Sisaket province), Phanom Dong Rak Wildlife Reserve ( Sisaket province), Huai Sala Wildlife Reserve ( Sisaket province), Huai Thap Than - Huai Samran Wildlife Reserve (Surin province).
Thai media also reported that 600 rangers have been evacuated from high-risk areas to ensure safety.
