Rise in Unexploded Ordnance Sites Along the Thai-Cambodian Border in Surin
Increase in abandoned explosive devices along Surin's border prompts safety worries
In a concerning development, the number of unexploded ordnance (UXO) sites along the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin Province has seen a significant increase. According to reports from the Surin Provincial Incident Command Centre and the Surin Provincial Public Relations Office, the number of UXO sites has risen sharply, reaching 451 as of August 13 [1].
Causes and Implications
This escalation can largely be attributed to the ongoing border conflict, which has led to increased military activities, including the use of rockets and artillery. The conflict has resulted in a significant rise in UXO sites, with 422 bombs exploding, 3 partially exploding, 25 remaining unexploded, and 1 bomb destroyed by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams between July 29 and August 13 [1].
The presence of UXO poses a significant threat to local residents, with 19 sites currently pending disposal, keeping residents on high alert. The conflict has also heightened tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations. This has led to increased military deployment and a heightened sense of security along the border [3][4].
The conflict and UXO issues have international implications, with Thailand expressing concerns over Cambodia's actions to the international community. This may lead to diplomatic pressure on Cambodia to adhere to ceasefire agreements [2].
Ongoing Efforts for Public Safety
In response to this situation, the Thai military and relevant authorities are actively engaged in inspecting and disposing of UXOs. On August 13, the EOD team from Surin Police Station, along with relevant authorities, inspected several UXO sites in the Takian and Naeng Mud subdistricts of Kap Choeng District, Surin. The inspections confirmed that the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin remains a high-risk area, with the explosives found during the inspection being confirmed as fully functional [1].
The Thai government continues to monitor Cambodian actions closely and is prepared to respond through diplomatic and security channels. This includes informing the international community about Cambodia's ceasefire breaches [2]. The Royal Thai Army remains deployed and on alert, observing Cambodian movements and ensuring that the border remains secure to prevent further incidents [2].
In summary, the increase in UXO sites along the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin is a result of ongoing military conflict and landmine deployments. Efforts to address these issues include EOD operations, enhanced border security, and diplomatic engagement to ensure public safety and resolve the conflict peacefully.
[1] Surin Provincial Incident Command Centre and Surin Provincial Public Relations Office, "Increase in Unexploded Ordnance Sites Along the Thai-Cambodian Border in Surin," August 13, 2022. [2] Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "Thailand Expresses Concern over Cambodia's Actions," August 14, 2022. [3] Thai Ministry of Defence, "Thai-Cambodian Border Tensions Escalate," August 15, 2022. [4] United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, "Thai-Cambodian Border Tensions Affecting Humanitarian Efforts," August 16, 2022. [5] Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, "Denial of Landmine Deployment in Thai Territory," August 17, 2022.
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