Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army has assured the public of its readiness to deploy heavy weaponry promptly if Cambodia fails to adhere to the agreed three-phase arms withdrawal. The military's commitment to demining activities in Buriram Province continues, despite obstacles reportedly posed by Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari addressed concerns regarding the strategic withdrawal of weapons from Lopburi Province. He emphasized that the army is equipped to reposition these weapons swiftly should Cambodia not comply with the withdrawal agreement. Additionally, despite reports of Cambodian interference with the Air Force's observation of demining activities, the Thai Military Command (TMAC) remains on schedule with its operations in the Chong Sai Taku area.
The National Mine Action Center (TMAC) confirmed the progress of mine clearance in the region, despite awaiting further directives from Cambodian authorities. The Suranaree Task Force reported that operations began as planned on October 28, 2025, with 7.62 percent of the designated 355,026 square meters verified.
On October 30, 2025, during minefield verification, Thai forces encountered Cambodian soldiers. Negotiations ensued, leading to a mutual understanding that the verification would continue strictly on Thai territory. Cambodia requested the Thai side refrain from altering the patrol area, allowing only for clearing or marking.
The Thai operations proceeded under Cambodian observation until completion. On November 1, 2015, the Thai AOT team assessed the ongoing demining efforts, with results and challenges duly reported. The demining initiative is part of a bilateral agreement formalized at a recent ASEAN Leaders' Meeting, with Thailand progressing as planned across 13 designated areas while awaiting Cambodian action.