Army Chief of Staff Inspects Sai Yok Border Area, Visits Local Affected by Cambodian Military Encounter
Thailand's army chief inspected the Sai Yok border area in Buriram after a local man and soldier encountered armed Cambodian forces while gathering forest products, prompting deployment of enhanced surveillance to secure the region.
On May 12, 2025, General Chaiyapruks Duangprathet, Chief of the Royal Thai Army and Commander of the Army Operations Center, conducted an on-site inspection of the Sai Yok border checkpoint area in Buriram Province to monitor security operations and evaluate safety measures in the region.
He subsequently visited and offered encouragement to Aphirak Butphet at his residence in Ban Kwad District, Buriram Province, following an incident in which both men encountered an armed group of Cambodian soldiers while gathering forest products. The encounter raised concerns among local residents living near the border.
The Army Chief directed the Suranari Command to adjust military deployment appropriately, deploy enhanced border surveillance equipment and support systems, and install additional monitoring devices to improve operational effectiveness and ensure comprehensive area coverage. He also ordered all units to maintain maximum readiness of personnel and equipment, capable of protecting national sovereignty and ensuring public safety at all times, in accordance with policies prioritizing security along all Thai border areas.
