Commander Enforces Strict Fuel Export Control at Chong Mek Border

Chong mek: The Commander of the 2nd Army Region has ordered stringent measures at the Chong Mek border checkpoint, prohibiting the export of all types of fuel, considered military equipment, effective from midnight tonight. This decision arises from suspicions regarding a potential smuggling operation aimed at transporting fuel to Cambodia. According to Thai News Agency, the Commander of the 2nd Army Region has officially signed a document enforcing the control of fuel and military equipment exports through the Chong Mek border crossing, with the new measures taking effect from midnight on December 14, 2025. Army Order (Specific) No. 806/2568 outlines the control measures for the opening and closing of border crossings along the Thai-Cambodian border under the jurisdiction of the 2nd Army Area. The Suranaree Task Force is granted authority over these operations within its area of responsibility, including determining methods, conditions, and timeframes. To adhere to directives from the Royal Thai Army, the 2nd Army Area Command has implemented export control measures at the Chong Mek crossing in Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. The export ban on all fuel types and military equipment will be enforced from midnight tonight, while other procedures remain unchanged. News reports suggest that intelligence from the 2nd Army Region points to potential fuel smuggling through the Chong Mek crossing into Laos, with the intent to resell the fuel in Cambodia. Consequently, the 2nd Army Region has coordinated with Lao immigration authorities to temporarily halt the shipment of fuel, a controlled commodity and military equipment, until further notice.