Over 6,000 people in Surin evacuated after border clashes

BANGKOK, 22 April 2011 (NNT) – Fresh clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin province have forced an evacuation of over 6,000 locals to safe places while Thai troops have sustained 3 fatalities and 13 injuries so far.

After a new round of border shooting erupted between Thai and Cambodian soldiers near Surin’s Ta Kwai and Ta Muen Temples this morning, Surin Governor Serm Chainarong has paid a visit to local residents who were evacuated from their homes. He reported that more than 6,000 came from parts of Phanom Dong Rak and Kap Choeng districts, which were in the danger zone, to reside in shelters set up at local schools within Phanom Dong Rak and Prasat districts.

Despite a level of anxiety, local residents still maintain their optimism while authorities are providing them with necessities, including tents, food, drinking water and medicines. Thus far, all civilians are safe; however, 3 Thai soldiers have been killed and another 13 wounded.