As the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border in Buriram province begins to ease in some areas, the province has temporarily allowed residents to return home and is preparing evacuation plans in case of emergency. Meanwhile, Ban Kruat district remains high risk due to ongoing tensions.
On 22 December 2025 GMT+7, reporters noted that since unrest began along the Thai-Cambodian border on 7 December, some residents at a shelter in Buriram province have started gradually returning to their areas. The province has permitted displaced people to temporarily check on their homes, but only in areas assessed as low risk, while continuing to enforce strict safety measures.
Field visits to a refugee shelter in Buriram province revealed a noticeable decrease in the number of displaced people. Originally, over 10,000 residents had sought refuge there; now, some have begun returning home to care for their property, livestock, and to clean their houses, all under the coordination and supervision of officials.
Ms. Nitayakul, 45, said that after more than two weeks, she has become concerned about her home and belongings, as well as the soldiers serving along the border. She expressed deep sympathy for the families of soldiers who have lost their lives in the conflict.
However, she stated that staying at the shelter remains possible since all agencies provide good care. She hopes the situation will end soon and emphasized her willingness to endure so frontline soldiers can perform their duties fully, acknowledging that soldiers face far greater risks than civilians.
Ms. Rabieb Fu Saeng, 58, shared that after having to evacuate, she feels stressed and wants to return home but accepts the need to be patient for the safety of herself and her family. She admitted feeling resentment about the situation. “Hun Sen,” she added, expressing strong emotions and a willingness to fight if called upon as a reservist, having completed five years of military training. She is ready to take up arms and hopes the conflict ends quickly.
Mr. Piya Pichinarm, Governor of Buriram province, stated that the province is coordinating with military and administrative authorities to assess the situation daily. Areas where tensions have eased, such as Lahan Sai, Prakhon Chai, and Chaloem Phra Kiat districts, have been temporarily allowed for residents to inspect their homes. Should violence flare again, evacuees can return to shelters immediately, with contingency plans in place.
However, the governor emphasized that areas still considered high risk, particularly Ban Kruat district, including Chanthophet and Saitaku subdistricts, remain strictly off-limits to civilians due to ongoing clashes. This is to ensure the safety of residents’ lives and property.