Bangkok: Artillery fire continues to be heard in Ban Chamrak, along the border of Trat province. The Royal Thai Navy confirms that its military operation is driving Cambodian troops out of Thai territory. Meanwhile, in Sa Kaeo province, the Burapha Task Force reports that Cambodian artillery shells struck two civilian houses.
According to Thai News Agency, clashes erupted along the Trat border at 5:30 AM this morning after a Cambodian drone was detected surveying the area and encroaching on Thai territory. An explosion was heard near the Ban Sam Lang base in Ban Chamrak Subdistrict, Mueang Trat District, approximately 20 kilometers from Trat city. The Thai Navy then fired illuminating rounds to allow Marine Corps personnel to advance into the disputed Ban Sam Lang area and Cambodian military bases at Than Pikka and Than Chom Muey. Gunfire was heard as far as Trat city and continued throughout the morning.
The Royal Thai Navy confirmed that its military operation to expel Cambodian troops from Thai sovereign territory was in accordance with the principle of self-defense, after Cambodia re-encroached on Thai sovereignty by digging trenches, installing heavy weapons, and using drones for reconnaissance and threatening gestures.
Regarding the situation in Sa Kaeo province, gunfire could still be heard in Ban Ang Sila, Khok Sung district this morning. The Royal Thai Army reported receiving information from the Burapha Task Force that Cambodian artillery shells struck two civilian houses in Ban Khok Thahan, Ta Phraya district. No injuries or fatalities were reported. This act is considered a violation of sovereignty, threatens public safety, and is a serious breach of humanitarian principles.
The Thai Army affirmed that it continues to strictly adhere to international principles and will take all necessary measures to protect the sovereignty and security of the Thai people.