Surin: The atmosphere along the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin Province remains calm after entering the second day of the mobilization of personnel and the removal of heavy weapons from the area, as per the agreement between the two countries. Most villagers continue to live their lives as usual, but they all share the same view: they distrust Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, community leaders in border areas revealed that some areas still have unexploded ordnance, mostly RPGs, scattered in agricultural areas of the village, totaling more than 100. Community leaders added that most villagers do not believe that Cambodia will actually withdraw its weapons and adjust its forces according to the agreement, as there was a similar case in 2011 where both sides made several agreements but the Cambodian side did not comply. If the Thai side were to withdraw its weapons or reduce its forces, it could open the way for Cambodian soldiers to enter Thai territory.
Meanwhile, in Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, which borders Thailand, there have been no reports of any movement of troops or weapons transfers. Local residents are similarly concerned and distrustful of Cambodia.
Regarding Cambodia’s developments, information was released via the Cambodian Ministry of Defense’s Facebook page stating that at 6:45 p.m. on November 1st, the arms withdrawal process had begun. Images showing BM-21 122-millimeter multiple rocket launchers appeared, in accordance with the agreement to withdraw heavy weapons, Phase 1, or Type A, from the conflicted border area, with the participation of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT). As for Thailand, no information has been released or an official press release regarding this movement.