The Royal Thai Navy has intensified patrols in Thai territorial waters after detecting 20–30 Cambodian fishing boats repeatedly entering and exiting the area, some reportedly armed. Authorities say the vessels have also been involved in smuggling seafood products from Thailand into Cambodia, prompting heightened monitoring and enforcement measures.

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On 27 March 2026, Lt Cdr Nattakit Sawaengphon, a staff officer with the First Naval Area Command Fleet, confirmed that Cambodian boats had been crossing into Thai waters south of Koh Kut along the maritime boundary line known as bearing 211. Most vessels were found to have crossed approximately one mile, or 500 yards, into Thai territory before retreating when detected by naval radar.

He stated that Thai naval forces are conducting regular patrols along the boundary to assert sovereignty and intercept intruding vessels. While many Cambodian boats flee upon detection, some have been pursued and apprehended. The navy has also seized seafood shipments believed to have been illegally transferred from Thailand to Cambodia.

Concerns have been raised over the possibility that some Cambodian fishing boats may be armed, particularly given the absence of a formal Cambodian navy. Lt Cdr Nattakit said authorities are closely analysing behavioural patterns linked to increased incursions, especially since tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border escalated.

He added that clear directives have been issued for patrols to demonstrate Thailand’s territorial rights, with rules of engagement aligned with international standards. If vessels refuse to comply, escalation procedures begin with warning shots and may progress further if necessary.

The officer referenced a previous incident in 2025 involving a Vietnamese fishing vessel that collided with HTMS Thepa after entering Thai waters, highlighting the navy’s readiness to use force when required. He emphasised that enforcement actions would follow a graduated response from minimal to stronger measures depending on the situation.

Authorities believe some Cambodian vessels have been entering Thai waters specifically to collect salmon and other seafood products for transport back across the border. Thai forces have intercepted and confiscated such goods as part of ongoing enforcement operations.

Looking ahead, the Royal Thai Navy will continue surveillance and data collection on cross-border fishing activities, while maintaining a visible presence along disputed maritime zones. Officials have indicated that further action will depend on developments and any escalation in incursions or provocations.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 28 Mar 2026

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Yes of course Cambodia will seek problems as they are not aware tha Thailand is much stronger than they are. I believe there are no problems yet, but Thailand provocating a bit to distract the people of the incompetence of the oil crisis in Thailand.

11 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

Yes of course Cambodia will seek problems as they are not aware tha Thailand is much stronger than they are. I believe there are no problems yet, but Thailand provocating a bit to distract the people of the incompetence of the oil crisis in Thailand.

I don't think Thailand caused said crisis. The same crisis also applies to Cambodia. I there documented incompetence?

3 Thai tankers are supposed to have transited Hormuz after diplomacy between Thailand and Iran. Hardly incompetence.

1 hour ago, VocalNeal said:

I don't think Thailand caused said crisis. The same crisis also applies to Cambodia. I there documented incompetence?

3 Thai tankers are supposed to have transited Hormuz after diplomacy between Thailand and Iran. Hardly incompetence.

I am not sure but I don't believe empty tankstations and a sudden rise of 6THB is not a policy that deserves a medal. Besides that there was limited petrol available although there is plenty in reserve. The oil tankers which could transit through Hormuz was because Thailand is not involved in the war and nothing to do with negotiations. It was all over the news that Iran allows tankers to pass which are from countries that are not supporting this war. And worst has yet to come with the rising prices and the declining tourists. It will be hard times in Thailand as most people don't have any savings and are not used to save or use less energy

If only Thailand had a submarine.....

2 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

Yes of course Cambodia will seek problems as they are not aware tha Thailand is much stronger than they are. I believe there are no problems yet, but Thailand provocating a bit to distract the people of the incompetence of the oil crisis in Thailand.

The conflict predates the Iran crisis.

It’s an interesting story, but worth keeping in perspective.

Most of the Cambodian boats entering Thai waters are small, low‑income fishing vessels rather than anything resembling organised armed groups!

Fish stocks move across an invisible maritime line, and the Thai–Cambodian boundary at sea isn’t clearly marked, so it’s very common for crews to drift a kilometre or two over without realising it.

These boats are usually unregistered, poorly equipped, and crewed by people who are simply trying to make a living. Cambodian fishermen have been crossing into Thai waters for years because the catch is better on the Thai side, not because they’re involved in subversion.

As for firearms, it’s not unusual in this region for fishing crews to carry basic weapons for protection against theft or piracy. That doesn’t automatically mean hostile intent.

The Thai Navy is doing what it has to do through patrols, checks, and deterrence, but so far there’s no evidence that these fishermen are anything more than economic migrants caught up in a long‑running maritime boundary issue.