Landmine explosion injures Thai ranger during border patrol
On the morning of August 12, a member of the 2610 Paramilitary Ranger Company lost his leg after stepping on a landmine near the ruins of Ta Muen Thom temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, close to the Cambodian border. The ranger received immediate medical attention and was quickly transported to a hospital for treatment. This incident highlights the persistent dangers along the Thai-Cambodian border, where minefields remain a deadly threat to soldiers and locals alike.
Rising tensions as Thai military protests Cambodia’s landmine use
This latest blast comes amid renewed criticism from the Thai military and government, who accuse Cambodia of violating the Ottawa Treaty by continuing to deploy anti-personnel mines. Officials argue that Cambodia’s actions undermine the spirit of their ceasefire agreement, intensifying border tensions, according to reports by Bangkok Post. Recent weeks have seen twelve Thai soldiers injured by landmine explosions, with four suffering amputations before this latest casualty.
Multiple injuries in recent border incidents
A similar incident occurred on August 9 near the Thai-Cambodian border in Kantharalak district, Sisaket province, when three Thai soldiers were injured during a routine patrol. The blast happened at approximately 10am in the Chong Don Ao-Krissana area, about 1.8 kilometres from Phu Makua. Infantry Company 111 was installing barbed wire fencing when they triggered a landmine. Sergeant Major First Class Thani Paha, 32, lost his left foot, while Privates Pakpoom Chaisura and Thananchai Kraiwong sustained injuries to the arm, back, and head, including a concussion and ruptured eardrum. All three soldiers received prompt medical treatment at a nearby hospital.
These recent incidents mark the fourth mine-related injury to Thai forces in contested border regions since mid-July. The Thai army has repeatedly blamed Cambodian forces for planting the mines, which continue to pose serious risks in the disputed areas.
