Fear of Clashes Drives Thai Border Residents to Flee

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Residents near the Thai-Cambodian border are fleeing despite no official evacuation order, fearing renewed clashes. Tensions are high in Sisaket's Kantharalak district, where vehicles have noticeably increased on Highway 221, bound for safety, reported Thai Rath today.

The Sao Thon Chai subdistrict, heavily bombarded during recent five-day skirmishes, is particularly affected. Villagers, haunted by past evacuations and a fragile ceasefire, have chosen caution over complacency.

Residents express distrust in the ceasefire, fearing further conflict could erupt at any moment. Despite no official evacuation order, families are relocating, prioritising their peace of mind over assurances from authorities.

Local leaders urge vigilance but acknowledge the community's apprehension. “Their decision to leave is for peace of mind as they have been evacuated many times already,” said the village headman.

Attempting to quell fears, the Second Army Region posted on Facebook at 10:12 p.m., stating, “The Suranaree Task Force remains at normal status. The public is asked not to panic.”

Still, as border tensions linger, the exodus underscores concerns about the volatile peace and the deep-seated anxiety among local populations.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-08-13