On January 6, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul asked Cambodia to immediately explain the violation of the ceasefire in the border area of Ubon Ratchathani province on the same morning, when a Thai soldier was injured by mortar fire from Cambodia.
Previously, Cambodia denied the incident, saying it was just an "accident".
Speaking to the press, Mr. Anutin said that the Thai government is continuously being updated on the border situation and relevant agencies are acting in accordance with the steps stated in the joint statement that the two countries signed last month.
According to a report by Thai Military Region 2, at 7:25 am on January 6 (local time), Cambodian forces fired mortar shells into Thai territory near Hill 469, in the Chong Bok area, Ubon Ratchathani province. A Thai soldier, First Sergeant Prachya Pilachai, was hit in the hand and injured.
Mr. Anutin said that the Thai military and security agencies have sent a note of protest to the Cambodian side, requesting clarification of the incident. Thailand's reaction will depend on an official explanation from Phnom Penh.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also sent a letter to the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, requesting clarification and providing an official diplomatic explanation for the violation of the ceasefire on the morning of January 6.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that he has not yet issued a code of conduct for Thai soldiers in this area, but plans have been prepared and all retaliatory measures, if any, will be decided to suit the situation.
This is just an initial statement and there will be further procedures to show that Thailand is acting within the framework agreed upon by both sides," he said, adding: "If necessary, Thailand will react. Details will be completed to ensure a specific result that is consistent with the military's operations.
According to Mr. Anutin, the Cambodian side believes that the incident is an accident. However, how Cambodia will be responsible for this "accident" still needs to be clarified.
Residential communities near the border area are maintaining contact with military units, which have been directed to closely monitor the situation and support people. Evacuation is not yet needed.
Attending the press conference with Prime Minister Anutin were Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Defense General Natthaphon Narkpanit and Secretary General of the National Security Council Chatchai BangChuad.
