Sa kaeo: Heavy fighting has intensified along the Thai-Cambodian border as Cambodian forces launched BM-21 rocket fire into Sa Kaeo province, injuring seven people and forcing the evacuation of remaining residents. The escalation, which peaked on Monday, saw rockets strike Ban Nong Samet, wounding a police officer and six civilians.
According to Thai News Agency, local authorities have now ordered the total evacuation of 19 villages, warning that the conflict-active since Dec. 8-is likely to expand. The prolonged hostilities have crippled the local economy. Tourism officials report that the famous Rong Kluea Market is deserted, forcing numerous hotels to shutter.
Sa Kaeo is now cited as among the hardest-hit of Thailand's seven border provinces, with trade and tourism at a total standstill.