The Thai military has issued a nationwide warning urging the public to remain vigilant against potential espionage activities, including suspicious drones and strangers, as border tensions with Cambodia escalate. The heightened alert follows reports of unmanned aerial vehicles conducting surveillance near sensitive military sites.

Thai Army Implements Nationwide Drone Ban Citing National Security Threats

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the Royal Thai Air Force confirmed the presence of drones being operated near strategic locations, labeling such activities as acts of espionage that pose a serious threat to national security. Authorities have called on citizens to report any unusual drone sightings via the 24-hour hotline 1374 or through local government offices.

Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Area overseeing northeastern provinces bordering Cambodia, revealed that provincial governors have been instructed to acquire anti-drone technology to secure key facilities, including government buildings, police stations, bus terminals, and airports. Additionally, local officials have been directed to monitor unfamiliar individuals who may be involved in espionage or potential terror plots.

The military commander confirmed that Thai forces remain on 24-hour standby following intelligence reports of Cambodian troop movements near the border. However, government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub stated that no violent incidents had been recorded in the seven Thai-Cambodian border provinces since midnight on Saturday. He warned that any Cambodian drones entering Thai airspace would be immediately destroyed.

The Thai military has alerted organisations and general public to watch out for suspicious drones and strangers amid border tensions with Cambodia.

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In a related move, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has imposed a nationwide ban on civilian drone operations to prevent any interference with security measures.

Meanwhile, Pol Lt. Gen. Yingyot Thepchamnong, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 2, announced the closure of evacuation shelters in eastern provinces as displaced residents have returned home. Despite the relative calm, police continue enhanced intelligence operations to ensure security.

As tensions persist, supplies donated by various provinces are being delivered to troops stationed along the border. Additionally, royally sponsored funerals are being arranged for soldiers and civilians killed in recent clashes with Cambodian forces.

Cambodian Spy Arrested Near Thai Border in Chanthaburi

The situation remains fluid, with Thai authorities maintaining a heightened state of readiness amid ongoing diplomatic and military uncertainties.

-Thailand News (TN)