BANGKOK – The Second Army Region has reported a significant incursion of Cambodian drones across the Thai border, raising security concerns and prompting heightened military surveillance. The incident, which occurred on October 3, involved multiple unmanned aircraft detected flying over several provinces along the frontier.

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According to the Operations Centre, military units observed 20 drones near the Prasat Ta Kwai temple and 14 at Phu Makhuea in Sisaket province. Additional drone activity was tracked in neighboring areas, with 12 spotted over Ban Kruat district in Buriram province and two each in the Mueang and Phanom Dong Rak districts of Surin province. Further sightings were reported near the ancient Preah Vihear temple, bringing the total number of detected drones to over fifty. In response, Thai forces have intensified monitoring and reinforced their readiness levels.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the situation, confirming that no armed clashes have occurred along the frontier. He emphasized that Thailand’s military remains on high alert at all times, upholding the principle of maintaining superior strength to safeguard national sovereignty. The Prime Minister revealed that troops in Surin province have formally requested anti-drone systems, which the government and military command are now preparing to deploy.

Unidentified Drones Defy National Ban, Spark Security Concerns

Anutin also announced that border crossings would remain closed indefinitely due to public safety concerns, stating they would only reopen when conditions are deemed secure and aligned with Thailand’s national interest. Regarding physical barriers, the Prime Minister explained that the construction of a border fence would be managed by the military, with its specific location, design, and timing determined by tactical assessments of the terrain and operational requirements.

-Thailand News (TN)