Speaking on Monday (Nov 3), Anutin acknowledged that operations “may not proceed smoothly” but insisted the objectives remain unchanged, reports the Bangkok Post. He urged restraint following reports that Cambodian authorities had obstructed ASEAN observers from monitoring clearance work at Chong Sai Taku in Buri Ram.
“I wouldn’t call it obstruction — both sides have been in constant discussions,” he said, adding that he had spoken with Gen Ukrit Boontanont, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, who confirmed that operations were ongoing.
The four peace conditions are disarmament, landmine clearance, suppression of cross-border scam operations, and resolution of overlapping territorial claims. Anutin warned that any breach of the agreement would prompt Thailand to respond as deemed appropriate.
He dismissed reports of Cambodia redeploying heavy weapons, stating that both sides had pulled back. “If they reintroduce weapons, that would violate the agreement and render it void,” he said, adding that Thai forces remain ready to defend national interests.
Asked whether he would visit the border, Anutin said he was open to doing so if it would help operations proceed according to the peace accords.
Army spokesman Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree confirmed that the Thai Mine Action Center (TMAC) continues clearance operations despite the Cambodian side awaiting orders from higher command. TMAC has completed 7.62% of the 355,026-square-metre target area, covering 13 high-risk zones.
On Thursday, Thai demining teams encountered Cambodian troops near operational lines and held talks to clarify boundaries. Cambodia requested that Thailand operate strictly within its side of the border and avoid terrain-altering activities such as installing barbed wire. Thai teams have since proceeded without incident.
Parallel operations by the Burapha Task Force are underway in Sa Kaeo to restore farmland, with one POMZ-2 antipersonnel mine found and safely removed. Defensive bunkers and civilian shelters are also under construction, with over 40% completed under an emergency plan.
The government reiterated that mine clearance is part of a bilateral agreement endorsed by ASEAN leaders. Thailand is progressing on all 13 designated sites, while Cambodia has yet to begin work on its side.
“Thailand remains fully prepared in every dimension to defend sovereignty and maintain safety for border communities,” the army said.