Bangkok: “Big Lek” has called upon Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to temporarily halt the signing of the Thai-Cambodian Declaration due to heightened military activities in an area of regular patrol. He is set to communicate his concerns through a letter directed towards the Airports of Thailand (AOT) and the United States.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nattapol Nakphanit, the Minister of Defense, addressed a recent incident involving Thai soldiers who stepped on a landmine at Huai Tamaria. He emphasized the importance of accuracy in his role as a commander, stating that he does not make claims without verification. General Nattapol had sought clarity from the Army Commander and the Second Army Region, who confirmed that the incident occurred in a routinely patrolled area, resulting in a soldier losing a leg. He expressed his deep sympathy for the affected soldiers and noted that the Second Army Region Commander suspects the presence of a new minefield. As a precaution, he requested Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s approval to pause the declaration’s implementation.
General Nattapol revealed that a protest letter had been dispatched to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further examination. Should the investigation reveal an infringement on sovereignty, further steps would be necessary.
In response to inquiries about involving the observer team and U.S. observers, General Nattapol affirmed that a letter would indeed be sent. He mentioned that the observer team, or AOT, is already present in the area. Consequently, he confirmed the suspension of the declaration signing, which had been approved by both the Thai and Cambodian Prime Ministers.
When questioned further about whether the investigation pointed to a new bomb or a sovereignty violation, General Nattapol cryptically remarked, “How can you give me an answer first?” indicating the complexity and sensitivity of the situation.