Thailand to sue Cambodian leaders for the loss of life and property

Thailand will proceed with the filing of both criminal and civil cases in the Thai courts against the Cambodian leaders responsible for causing death and injury to the Thai people, as well as property damage, during the five-day armed conflict in late July, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said today.

He explained that the intention is to ensure that there are both criminal and civil cases against the Cambodian leaders pending in the Thai courts, even though the courts cannot force them to stand trial.

He ruled out the option of taking the cases to the International Court of Justice, because Thailand does not recognise its jurisdiction, but it may turn to other international channels, such as Interpol, to pursue the cases.

Phumtham maintains that the legal action is not a political game which, he said, would not help in resolving border dispute with Cambodia.

Meanwhile, Deputy Defence Minister Nattaphon Nakpanich said today that it is understandable that Cambodia did not accept the Thai proposal to cooperate in the clearance of landmines along the shared border and in dealing with the scam operations in Cambodia.

He admitted that it is difficult for both sides to resolve the landmine problem, because there is no mutual trust and landmines are considered an effective deterrent to incursion.

He noted, however, that he admires the Thai GBC secretariat for their success in convincing Cambodia to accept most of the Thai proposals.

Regarding the displaced people in four provinces affected by the recent fighting, General Nattaphon said the Thai army will constantly reassess the situation, until they are certain that it is safe to let them return to their homes.

He said that the Thai Army is concerned that there may still be some live ordnance lying in the fields, which could endanger people, as he appealed to those displaced for a little more patience.