Military hosts media visit to refute scam centre claims

Military hosts media visit to refute scam centre claims

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Military hosts media visit to refute scam centre claims

Thai military officials on Tuesday escorted Thai and foreign media to a border crossing in Surin province to counter allegations of scam centres and ease security concerns along the Thai-Cambodian frontier.

The defence minister, meanwhile, warned that any renewed clashes would likely escalate into a large-scale confrontation.

ACM Prapas Sonjaidee, director of the Thai-Cambodian Situational Information Centre, led reporters to the Chong Chom border crossing in Kap Choeng district for an on-site assessment of the security situation and areas linked to alleged transnational online crime.

He said the visit was intended to allow journalists to verify conditions first-hand, enhance transparency and curb misinformation circulating about scam operations and border tensions.

The initiative, he added, aimed to provide comprehensive information, reaffirm Thailand's commitment to combating transnational crime and strengthen public confidence in border security. Thailand remains open to scrutiny and encourages joint verification with international partners, he said.

ACM Prapas stressed that Thailand was not accusing Cambodia, but highlighting the challenge posed by transnational criminal networks operating across borders.

He also rejected claims of territorial encroachment, saying Thai forces strictly adhere to agreed deployment lines and international law.

The overall situation along the border remains under control and is in a phase of de-escalation, he said, adding that diplomatic mechanisms such as the Joint Boundary Commission are key to resolving sensitive issues peacefully.

Thailand will continue cooperating with neighbouring countries and international organisations to dismantle cross-border fraud networks, while prioritising civilian safety and maintaining stability in border communities.

Separately, Defence Minister Lt Gen Adul Boonthamcharoen urged the public not to be alarmed by speculation about renewed fighting, saying authorities would issue warnings and evacuate civilians if hostilities were imminent, making clashes unlikely while residents remain in the area.

Addressing rumours of a third round of fighting, he urged people to rely on official information and frontline military reports.

If conflict were to resume, he said, it would likely be large-scale, and the opposing side would have to weigh the risks carefully.

He reassured the public of the military's readiness and encouraged residents to enjoy the Songkran festival, noting that contingency plans are in place despite the low likelihood of conflict.

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