Ubon ratchathani: The government insists on providing full care and compensation to injured personnel. The government has emphasized its commitment to taking full care of and compensating soldiers injured while on duty. Concurrently, the 2nd Army Area is actively engaged in verifying evidence to ascertain whether it originates from the Khmer Rouge era or is of a more recent date. Prominent figures, Paethongtarn Shinawatra and General Nattapol Nakphanit, have promptly visited the area to offer support and encouragement to the soldiers stationed at the Thai-Cambodian border.
According to Thai News Agency, Jirayu Huangsap, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that both the government and military are expediting an investigation to uncover the truth behind recent events. He also urged all officials to exercise heightened caution and strictness in their missions within the area. The Thai government remains steadfast in its peaceful approach to preserving national sovereignty and aims to restore peace and safety to the border areas swiftly.
Reports indicate that the 2nd Army Region, on July 18, dispatched a bomb disposal and evidence collection unit to gather further evidence for verification. Previously, the 2nd Army Region deployed the 2nd General Construction Company, 202nd Engineer Battalion, and other units to clear the area and construct a patrol route in the Chong Bok area. During their operations, they discovered several military objects, which are currently under investigation to determine whether they are remnants from the Khmer Rouge era or contemporary in origin.
Mr. Jirayu further stated that Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Minister of Culture, along with General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense, visited Saraphasitprasong Camp Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani Province. They offered support to three soldiers-Private Thanapat Huiwan, Sergeant Major Patipat Srilasak, and Private Nattawut Srikhem-who were injured in a landmine incident in the Chong Bok area. The government representatives also provided necessities to the soldiers and reaffirmed the government's backing for frontline officers.
Representing the Cabinet, Ms. Paethongtarn expressed her respect for the military personnel's sacrifices, stating, "I would like to express my respect for the sacrifice for the country of all military personnel who are currently performing their duties for our people." She assured that the Ministry of Defense is urgently investigating the facts and working to dispose of landmines in the area. She emphasized the government's commitment to full compensation for those affected by the incident and reiterated the dedication to maintaining both the safety of military personnel and national sovereignty, with a focus on restoring peace to the border areas. Ms. Paethongtarn concluded by sending her encouragement to all military personnel on duty.