EOD officers destroyed 10 mortar shells in a sugarcane field at Ban Nong Chan and suspect that many more unexploded mortar shells remain in the area.
On 28 January 2026 GMT+7, reporters learned that in the Ban Nong Ya Kaeo–Nong Chan area of Sa Kaeo Province, residents reported finding unexploded artillery shells in a rice field. Authorities promptly notified the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit of the Border Patrol Police Region 12 in Aranyaprathet District to investigate immediately.
Upon inspection, a 105-millimeter artillery shell was found in a rice field. Its detonator was missing, rendering it inactive. Officers safely secured the shell before expanding their search to nearby areas.
Later, EOD officers discovered 10 mortar shells (82 millimeters) in agricultural land in Ban Nong Ya Kaeo village. They decided to destroy all the explosives on site using C4 charges. This operation marked the largest single destruction of mortar shells at once—10 shells. All officers retreated to a safe distance amid a tense atmosphere.
Authorities believe that Ban Nong Ya Kaeo and Ban Nong Chan may still harbor many unexploded mortar shells, artillery shells, and BM-21 rockets. Because the area is largely sugarcane plantations and agricultural land not yet harvested, it is difficult to conduct thorough searches. Most residents avoid entering the fields to cut sugarcane due to safety concerns.
Officials urge the public to immediately report any explosive devices or suspicious objects to village leaders or authorities. They strictly warn against moving, storing at home, or selling such items as they pose severe risks to life and property.