Thai Forces Use Rubber Bullets After Border Dispute with

Thai Forces Use Rubber Bullets After Border Dispute with Cambodians

Thai riot police deployed rubber bullets and tear gas in Khok Sung district, Sa Kaeo, to disperse Cambodian civilians who had cut through concertina wire that marked the border at posts 42‐43. The confrontation followed reports from Thai officials that the wire was cut by Cambodians on September 16, prompting a protest and increased security. Around 200 Cambodian nationals gathered, allegedly hurling sticks, stones, and using slingshots, which led to the forceful response. At least 23 Cambodians were reported injured; some Thai officers also sustained injuries though the numbers weren’t disclosed. Thailand’s foreign ministry defended the action as occurring within its territory and called for Cambodia to stop provocations, while future border committee talks are expected to address long-standing tensions.