Residents of Kantharalak are closely monitoring the border situation after a 40mm grenade fired by Cambodia landed near a Thai base. They expect a third round of clashes after the election and express admiration for the Thai soldiers' patience and fighting spirit.
On 5 Feb 2026 GMT+7, the Army reported from the 2nd Army Area that at around 10:20 a.m., a 40mm grenade was fired and landed near a Thai operational base in Kantharalak district, Sisaket province, with no personnel injured. After the incident, Thai forces prepared to respond in accordance with rules of engagement. Coordination was made with Cambodian commanders in the area to inform them of the incident. Cambodia stated it was a disciplinary breach by new troops assigned there and that the personnel had been warned and instructed accordingly.
A reporter described the atmosphere in the border village of Saothongchai subdistrict, Kantharalak district, Sisaket province. Following the incident, there has been no evacuation order for local residents, and no directive from government or security agencies to evacuate. Most villagers continue their normal lives but closely follow news updates amid concerns over possible unrest.
Mr. Sakchai Thaokham, a local resident, expressed his strong displeasure upon learning that Cambodian soldiers had fired grenades toward the Thai military base. He said it would be best if both countries stayed separate. He believes Thai soldiers should respond to show that Thai people love their country and democracy, and that Thailand has never been the aggressor. If invaded, they must demonstrate that their land belongs to them. He suggested a measured response to teach Cambodia a lesson without escalating to lethal force, to show Thai patriotism.
Regarding explanations that the grenade was caused by a fire igniting explosives at the frontline, Mr. Sakchai said he was skeptical. He believes only frontline soldiers can clearly confirm what happened, while civilians can only follow news. In his view, Cambodia intentionally aimed to undermine the morale of Thai soldiers along the border. He praised Thai soldiers for their endurance and fighting spirit, saying they are better than politicians who only talk and do nothing. He offered full support to the soldiers, urging them not to remain passive or believe politicians' words. He credited the soldiers with keeping the nation safe, allowing him and others to live safely.
Mr. Sakchai added that if fighting occurs again, it would likely be after Thailand completes its national election. He thinks Cambodia should allow Thailand to hold the election first; otherwise, Cambodia would be acting without ethics or morals. He emphasized the importance of electing leaders through voting. If war broke out before the election, it would suggest Cambodia aims to disrupt Thai politics. However, he expressed doubt since Cambodia has never been trustworthy.