Thailand Denies Border Encroachment, Cites Security Needs Amid Cambodian Dispute

The segment begins by discussing Cambodia's continued refusal to accept border demarcations claimed by Thailand, despite past conflicts.

Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on June 27, 2026, rejecting Thailand's claimed border and alleging Thai incursions into Cambodian territory.

Cambodia accuses the Thai army of clearing forests and advancing into Cambodian territory, including installing barbed wire at border checkpoint 26.

The Cambodian statement further alleges that the Thai army violated agreements, including the 2000 MOU and a 2025 GBC resolution, regarding border demarcation.

Cambodia calls on Thailand to cease hostilities and respect mutual obligations to de-escalate tensions and resolve conflicts peacefully.

Despite Cambodia's calls, the report notes that the Thai army continues to occupy certain areas and has erected a border fence unilaterally.

Since July 2025, Cambodia has filed 42 official diplomatic protests regarding alleged Thai territorial incursions.

Cambodian government spokesperson, Pen Bona, stated that Cambodia has sent nine diplomatic notes to Thailand requesting meetings of the Joint Border Committee (JBC) and Joint Survey Team (JST).

Cambodia accuses Thailand of violating the 1:200,000 scale map from the Indochina-Siam Boundary Commission, based on French-Siamese conventions of 1904 and 1907, while Thailand allegedly uses a unilaterally created 1:50,000 map.

Army Region 2 issues a statement refuting Cambodia's claims, asserting that all operations are within Thai sovereignty and legal international frameworks.

The Thai statement clarifies that their actions are for internal security, to prevent illegal activities, and protect citizens, not to change borders or threaten neighbors.

Thai operations are conducted under the framework of the joint statement of December 27, 1968 (68), adhering to the ceasefire without intent to alter borders by force.

The necessity for recent measures stems from an incident on May 8, 2026, where Thai villagers encountered suspicious individuals speaking Cambodian and hearing what sounded like gunshots near a reservoir.

Army Region 2 ordered an immediate investigation, which confirmed the villagers' report and recovered a discarded motorcycle. No military bases or structures were found.

Intelligence indicates the area has been used for illegal activities like robbery, extortion, motorcycle smuggling, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling.

The special task force deemed it necessary to reorganize the area to enhance security and safety along the border for residents.

The land adjustment, described by Cambodia as deforestation, is clarified as necessary clearing within Thai borders for security purposes, not an encroachment.

Enhanced measures in June are a continuation of the situation assessment following the May incident, ensuring thorough and strict area management.

Army Region 2 will continue to cooperate with security agencies and civil administration to improve surveillance and control, upholding peaceful methods and national sovereignty.

A promotion is announced for the channel's 5th anniversary, encouraging viewers to become 'Top Fans' or 'Top Members'.