Urgent Mine-Clearing Operations Launched
Combat Engineers Tackle Chong Bok Crisis
On July 20, 2025, Thailand’s Suranaree Task Force initiated mine-clearing operations in the Chong Bok area of Ubon Ratchathani province, near the Thai-Cambodian border, following a landmine explosion that injured three Thai soldiers on July 16. The Second Army Region, overseeing the Northeast, reported the discovery of approximately 100 newly planted landmines, including Russian-made PMN-2 devices, prompting immediate action to secure the border and protect stationed troops. Heavy machinery, such as armored tractors, is being deployed to ensure safe clearance.
Evidence Points to Treaty Violation
Cambodia Accused of Ottawa Convention Breach
Thai military officials claim the landmines, designed to obstruct troop movements, violate the Ottawa Treaty, which bans anti-personnel mines and was ratified by both Thailand and Cambodia in 1999. The presence of PMN-2 mines, not used by the Thai armed forces, has fueled accusations that Cambodian forces planted them. The Thai government is gathering evidence to support claims of a deliberate breach, with plans to file a formal complaint with the United Nations, escalating diplomatic tensions.
Thai Military Rejects Cambodian Claims
Refuting Allegations of Self-Inflicted Mines
Cambodia has accused Thailand of planting the mines, citing photos and videos allegedly showing Thai involvement. However, Major General Winthai Suvaree, Royal Thai Army spokesman, clarified that the footage was from a Thailand Mine Action Center training session, not evidence of Thai mine-laying. He argued that Cambodia’s claim that the mines were found on Thai soil suggests illegal border crossings by Cambodian forces, further complicating the dispute over the contested Chong Bok area.
Diplomatic and Military Response
National Security Council Meeting Planned
The Ad Hoc Center for Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation, led by Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, will convene a full-panel meeting at the National Security Council on July 21 to discuss the landmine incident and Thailand’s response. The government condemned the mine deployment as a violation of Thai sovereignty and international law, urging Cambodia to cooperate in joint demining efforts as per prior bilateral agreements. This meeting aims to strategize diplomatic and military actions to address the crisis without escalating into broader conflict.
Public Outrage Fuels Protests
Demonstrations at Cambodian Embassy
On July 20, protesters rallied outside the Cambodian embassy in Bangkok, led by Pichit Chaimongkol of the People and Student Network for the Reform of Thailand. The group condemned Cambodia’s alleged use of landmines as a threat to national security and a violation of the Ottawa Treaty. The demonstration reflects growing public frustration over the incident, which saw one soldier lose a foot, amplifying calls for accountability and stronger border security measures.
Historical Context of Border Tensions
Chong Bok’s Contentious Legacy
The Chong Bok area, part of the Emerald Triangle where Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge, has a history of conflict, including clashes in the 1970s and a gunfire exchange on May 28, 2025, that killed a Cambodian soldier. Ongoing disputes over undemarcated borders, including areas near Prasat Ta Muean Thom, exacerbate tensions. The landmine incident, coupled with Cambodia’s denial and counter-accusations, underscores the need for transparent investigations and renewed bilateral talks to prevent further escalation.
