The Interim Observer Team (IOT), operating under the Royal Thai Armed Forces, has confirmed the discovery of Cambodian landmines in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province. The mines damaged farmland in four villages, threatening the livelihoods of residents who depend on agriculture. Thai officials stated that the incident violates international humanitarian law as it directly affected civilians and their property.
Survey operations in Phanom Dong Rak district have so far uncovered 264 landmines, most of which have been cleared. Thirteen remain, and additional unexploded ordnance is suspected in the area. Among the remnants discovered was a BM-21 rocket warhead. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious as clearance operations continue.
The Royal Thai Navy’s explosive ordnance disposal teams are carrying out demining operations to restore farmland and reduce risks to local communities. Their efforts remain essential to ensuring safety in the affected areas.
During the inspection, Brigadier General Samsul met with clearance teams and expressed appreciation for their work. Drawing on his own demining experience along the Thai–Malaysian border, he described mine clearance as a humanitarian effort that protects civilians and helps return agricultural land to safe use.
