First section of Thai-Cambodian border fence to begin in Sa Kaeo

The Thai Army will propose the construction of a 14-kilometer permanent fence along the Thai-Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo’s Aranyaprathet district, to prevent illegal activities, said Maj Gen Vithai Laithomya, spokesman for the Thai Armed Forces.

Construction of the fence, between markers 50 and 51, where there is no dispute over the border line because the Prom Hod Canal and Sisophon River serve as natural boundaries, will begin as soon as the National Security Council gives the green light, Vithai said.

He made the remarks after Gen Manas Chandee, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, inspected the site yesterday.

The construction, which will be the first section of the permanent border wall, is expected to be completed this year, Vithai said.

In other areas, where border demarcation remains unresolved, a temporary barrier will be built first. This will include the construction of patrol roads along the border, the installation of triple-layer wire fences and the setting up of CCTV cameras where possible.

The measures would be aimed at curbing illegal crossings, preventing unlawful entry and crime and tackling operations by call-center gangs and scam networks, according to Vithai.

The Armed Forces will communicate with local residents to foster understanding, emphasising that the border fence would serve as a vital safeguard of Thailand’s sovereignty and its people.