Border villagers believe "Thailand-Cambodia" will clash for the third time, viewing the grass burning as potentially significant and staying ready to evacuate at all times.
On 27 Jan 2026 GMT+7, reporters reported that the latest atmosphere at the Chong An Ma border area in Ubon Ratchathani Province, on the Cambodian border side, continues to have burning of grass and wood debris to create smoke along the border almost continuously along the entire Thailand-Cambodia border line.
Meanwhile, border front inspector officials stated that the burning of grass and wood debris reduces visibility for patrols along the border front but does not pose any problem in managing or controlling the area. From inspections and observations, no abnormalities have been found.
Ms. Dam Wanta, 68, said she believes there will definitely be a third clash because the terrain above the land pass at Hill 745 is wide and stretches to the dome summit, with many caves where the Khmer often dig. However, no matter how they dig, they cannot match the skills of the Thai soldiers.
Regarding preparedness, she has been ready since the first clash. She keeps supplies and necessities prepared at all times. If an incident occurs, she is willing to evacuate as ordered by authorities. So far, she has evacuated to shelters twice and has not gone twice. She has received 5,000 baht in compensation, which she used to pay off debts incurred during evacuation and to buy rice.