Thai Armed Forces confirms POW release only after cessation of hostilities
The Royal Thai Armed Forces explains that POWs will only be released after hostilities end, as Cambodia removes heavy weapons and clears landmines.
Group Captain Jongjet Vacharanan, Deputy Spokesman for the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF), addressed public concerns regarding the release of prisoners of war (POWs), withdrawal of heavy weapons, and the clearance of landmines in the Thailand-Cambodia border area.
The RTARF clarified that POWs will only be released when the “state of hostility has ended”, and the process will follow strict protocols. This can occur once the two countries have completed the following two key actions:
1. Withdrawal of heavy weapons from the border area:
Both countries must complete the full 100% withdrawal of heavy weaponry, including rocket launchers, artillery, and tanks, in accordance with the agreement, under the observation of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) and relevant agencies.
2. Landmine clearance in five out of the 13 affected areas along the border, with no obstructions from either side:
These areas include:
- Ban Sai Tho 10, Buriram Province
- Chong Hew, Surin Province
- Ban Nong Chan, Sa Kaeo Province
- Ban Nong Ya Kaew, Sa Kaeo Province
- Ban Cham Rak, Trat Province
Jongjet said that once the heavy weapons are withdrawn, operations in each area will be carried out on a one-on-one basis between Thai and Cambodian military personnel. The RTARF is fully prepared to maintain 100% security at the border, ready to respond to any emergency situations or unforeseen events. This includes operations on land, sea, and air to protect the safety of the public and the sovereignty of Thailand.
The RTARF emphasised that all operations will uphold the principles of peace, public safety, and the preservation of national sovereignty. The RTARF will continue to report on progress to reassure the public and alleviate concerns.
The RTARF reiterated that it remains steadfast in ensuring the security of the border area, particularly concerning the “independence and sovereignty of Thailand”.
