Fierce Border Land Dispute Heats Up as 'Je Rattan' Defies Settlement, Blocking Residents from Accessing Fields

Sakaeo — A fierce land dispute along the Thai-Cambodian border in Kok Sung District, Sakaeo Province, has reignited as a woman claiming ownership rights continues to block residents holding legal land titles from farming the area, despite the state recently reopening it for public use.

Multiple residents filed complaints with police at Kok Sung Station to assert their ownership rights under land titles (Sor. Kor. 1 and Nor. Sor. 3 Kor.) after being obstructed by Thong Lad Khan Cha, known as 'Je Rattan,' the ex-wife of the former sub-district headman, and her son. The complainants include six individuals aged 51 to 78, who hold overlapping claims to several plots in Moo 3, Non Mak Mun Subdistrict, Kok Sung District.

Residents stated that the area was historically inaccessible due to border security concerns for decades, until authorities recently cleared and reopened it. However, after residents began preparing the land for agriculture, another party emerged claiming continuous occupation and refusing to allow the original title holders access.

A community representative revealed the dispute has dragged on for over 40 years, affecting multiple families who have lost agricultural opportunities and income. However, residents expressed satisfaction that local administrators intervened to negotiate a temporary cease-fire, allowing both parties to separate peacefully.

Kok Sung District Chief disclosed that authorities have met with both parties, each insisting on their rights to the land. A provisional arrangement has been made for each party to manage non-disputed areas, while overlapping sections await a land survey by officials to determine true boundaries and ownership. The district chief added that if the survey resolves the matter, the case will close; otherwise, it may escalate to court proceedings.