Law enforcement officials aim to maintain the imprisonment of the alleged spy figure
A Cambodian man named Win Da, aged 36, was arrested in Krasang district, Buri Ram, on suspicion of espionage. Win Da has been living in the local community for approximately two years, residing with his 27-year-old Thai wife, Joy, and their one-year-old child in Ban Khok Sung, Si Phum.
The authorities are investigating Win Da's possible links to a military guard unit reportedly loyal to Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. During a search of Win Da's residence, police discovered a homemade firearm and several Cambodian military uniforms bearing BHQ insignia. Authorities remain unconvinced of Win Da's denial of espionage, citing Facebook posts showing his support for Hun Sen and the discovery of three mobile phones believed to contain relevant data.
Win Da has admitted to previously serving in the Cambodian army for nine months but denies spying. Investigators found four pieces of identification under four different names, including a Cambodian passport under the name Meas Somonchannak and a military ID identifying him as Capt Son Kim Ai.
Neither Mr Win nor Ms Joy appear to have regular employment, leading some villagers to suspect that they might be living on monthly remittances from abroad. Joy claimed ignorance about Win Da's past military involvement and his illegal entry into Thailand, which reportedly occurred in mid-July 2025.
In response to the incident, local Thai authorities have increased border security measures, including crackdowns on unauthorized drone use in border provinces, amid heightened concerns about espionage and recent border tensions with Cambodia. Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Region, has requested governors of all border provinces to heighten vigilance against potential espionage activities.
The authorities are working closely with the police to verify Win Da's background. The evidence points to a possible intelligence role, but further investigation is needed to ensure fairness and due process. Win Da faces initial charges of illegal firearm possession and unlawful entry into Thailand, with potential national security charges under investigation. The suspect is being held in detention, and the police have sought court approval to extend it.
Ms Joy has expressed reluctance to give further interviews due to fear that her former partner might learn about the incident. The authorities continue interrogations and seek court approval to extend Win Da's detention while examining possible links to Cambodian military or intelligence units. Further investigation is ongoing.
- The unusual discovery of several Cambodian military uniforms bearing BHQ insignia and a homemade firearm at Win Da's residence has raised questions within the realm of general-news and crime-and-justice, as it further entangles Win Da in a complex web of alleged espionage activities.
- The ongoing investigation into Win Da's potential links to Cambodian military or intelligence units, in the context of ordered border security measures, has brought politics into focus as authorities work to ensure national security and maintain peace along the Thai-Cambodian border.
