The Navy spokesperson explained that Lt. Cmdr. Thammanoon's transfer to the Navy's Humanitarian Mine Clearance Unit follows routine rotation and the commander's discretion. He denied any connection to a confrontation with the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and confirmed it is not a "complete and then eliminate" case. The new commander of the Trat Naval Task Force is highly capable, and time will be the test.
On 31 March 2026, Rear Adm. Parach Rattanachaiphan, Navy spokesperson, revealed that the internal position reshuffling and transfers have been widely seen in the appointment orders. The numerous position changes result from the Navy's policy encouraging early retirement among officers, which has increased vacancies. Transfers usually occur twice yearly, on 1 April and 1 October. This is a normal part of personnel management and done with the commander's approval based on suitability.
Lt. Cmdr. Thammanoon Wanna, former commander of the Trat Naval Task Force, has been reassigned to the Navy's Humanitarian Mine Clearance Unit, replacing Capt. Santi Ketsripongsak, who retired. Capt. Santi had successfully cleared many mines, enabling safe establishment of military bases. Lt. Cmdr. Thammanoon's new role is equally important.
The new commander of the Trat Naval Task Force, Capt. Prachaya Phoyoi, is a skilled reconnaissance soldier and graduate of the 32nd military preparatory class. He has field experience with the Chanthaburi-Trat Border Defense Force, having served as chief of staff and deputy commander of the Trat Naval Task Force, then commander of the Chanthaburi Naval Task Force, and head of the Thai-Cambodian border coordination unit. His appointment must be proven over time, as Lt. Cmdr. Thammanoon set a very high standard. It is expected he will also bear significant responsibilities and pressures.
Regarding the appropriateness of transfers and position changes, these are at the discretion and authority of the commander, who considers each individual's abilities. The spokesperson confirmed this is unrelated to the incident involving a confrontation with Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister. The behavior seen in the incident was reasonable. Cambodia's claim that Thai forces encroached on their territory is denied. If any mistakes occurred, commanders must be accountable. This is not a "complete and then eliminate" situation; all decisions are based on appropriateness.
Past operations involved not only three houses but also placing container barriers after a ceasefire agreement, clearly intended to reduce clashes between soldiers on both sides. Previously, only barbed wire was used and Cambodian troops frequently provoked. Importantly, the container placement did not affect Cambodian residents’ living conditions, as surrounding roads remained accessible. Thai forces strictly maintain regulations and agreements to minimize provocations and maintain peace.
This morning, I spoke with Lt. Cmdr. Thammanoon, who is in good spirits and expressed gratitude for the call. He stated he is prepared for his new role and respects the commander's decision.
Regarding the controversy over "Captain Tony" from a video clip, it was clarified that the footage only shows part of the incident. Prior to that, a large number of armed opposing forces entered the area, an abnormal situation. The officers' actions aimed to control the situation and de-escalate tensions.
The latest border situation in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces remains peaceful despite periodic detection of enemy reinforcements. The Navy continues to control the situation and strictly follows international agreements.
If any territorial incursions occur, whether by fishing boats or other forces, Thai authorities will equally push them out of national waters. The primary goal remains to maintain peace and safety for people along the border.