Thai - Cambodia Conflict Thai Army Threatens Action: Cambodian Landmine Triggers Fury

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In this handout photo from the Thai Army, a Thai military engineer on Aug. 4, 2025, removes an anti-personnel mine that Thai authorities allege was planted by Cambodian soldiers in Phu Ma Kheua, a disputed area that Thailand claims is part of its Sisaket province, where the two nations recently clashed. (Thai Army via AP)

 

The Royal Thai Army is hitting back after a Cambodian landmine exploded on Thai soil in Surin province. The incident happened on Tuesday morning, injuring one Thai soldier, and now there are calls for self-defence. Yes, you heard right; things are getting serious.

 

The explosion, reported at 9:10 am, occurred along a standard patrol route a kilometre from the Ta Muen Thom temple ruins. Seven paramilitary rangers were on duty when Sgt Theerapol Piakhanthee stepped on the device. The blast left him with severe injuries to his left ankle, landing him in Phanom Dong Rak Hospital.

 

The army spokesman, Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, is not holding back. He claims this explosion is direct evidence of Cambodia violating international laws and the Ottawa Treaty, which bans such landmines. He accuses Cambodia of direct attacks on Thai forces within Thailand, saying these incidents showcase Cambodia's “ill intention” and continuous threats despite the ceasefire agreement.

 

Accusations of Cambodia's territorial integrity violations and the confirmation of the ceasefire pact during the recent General Border Committee meeting intensify the situation. Maj Gen Winthai alleges that these acts reveal Cambodia's intent to use concealed weapons to undermine the peace process between the two nations.

 

“It’s clear Cambodia is systematically using landmines against us,” Maj Gen Winthai asserted. He added that while the Thai Army has maintained a peaceful stance, ongoing aggressions might force them to defend themselves under international law. The aim is to confront the losses faced by Thai military personnel due to repeated violations of the ceasefire and Thai sovereignty.

 

Unfortunately, this isn't an isolated case. Since the onset of landmine explosions on July 16, these concealed threats have resulted in the loss of five Thai soldiers' legs on Thai soil. Thirteen soldiers have sustained injuries in the Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, leading to increased tension between the neighbouring countries, according to the Bangkok Post.

 

For now, the Thai Army appears to be losing patience, and the demand for protective measures is becoming increasingly louder. Could this latest incident push the relationship between Thailand and Cambodia to a critical point? Only time will tell.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-13