The Prime Minister affirmed that the government is ready to support the budget for mine clearance without stinginess. He expressed sympathy for the personnel who sacrifice and face danger and must be fully cared for. He pointed out that the incident at Ban Nong Jan was not an attack but involved an old mine.
On 31 July 2026, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul commented on the case of soldiers stepping on a mine during a patrol at Ban Nong Jan, Khok Sung District, Sa Kaeo Province. He said that greater caution is required. The Prime Minister fell silent for a moment and then added, “I feel sorry for the personnel.” Going forward, patrol routes for clearing old explosive devices must be carefully planned. Sometimes personnel act in good faith and with concern to make the area as safe as possible. During clearance operations, they may deviate from planned routes; we must be understanding because they sacrifice a lot. Therefore, we must take good care of them and instruct commanders to strictly supervise each patrol. However, this case was not an attack but involved an old mine, of unknown origin, which personnel were clearing according to agreements between the two countries.
When asked about tools to assist with clearance, the Prime Minister said the current government fully supports using equipment and tools to protect the nation’s sovereignty.
“I have discussed details with the military. Once we reach agreement, we will not be stingy on this matter.”