Troops Clear Border Issue: Cambodians Using Undemarcated Border Land for Agriculture as Thailand Strengthens Monitoring

The First Army Region has deployed troops to address Thai public complaints about Cambodian nationals using agricultural land in Non Mak Mun subdistrict, Kok Sung district, Surin province—an area without clearly defined border demarcation. Army spokesman Polcol Windhai Suvatee stated on May 18, 2025 that soldiers have already engaged in talks with the parties involved. Since the area lacks clear border delineation, ownership cannot be definitively determined, and authorities have requested cooperation in suspending use of the land temporarily.

The military spokesman noted that prior to recent combat situations, neither side had strictly enforced border area usage restrictions. However, following the outbreak of conflict, stricter measures and heightened vigilance have become necessary.

When asked whether public requests for fence construction could be implemented immediately, Polcol Windhai stated that no mutually accepted border demarcation line currently exists between the two countries, though barbed wire fencing has been installed in areas under Thai control. The border area under the Second Army Region's responsibility spans over 400 kilometers, making it necessary to allocate adequate time for proper area management and operations.

"We ask the public to rely primarily on information from military and government agencies to prevent misunderstandings," the spokesman said. "Some people may not fully understand the theoretical boundary lines established by both nations' militaries, which are currently undergoing continuous adjustments. Thai agricultural areas have no issues because their boundaries are clearly defined. Similarly, Cambodian military officials must help their own citizens understand these matters as well."