Cambodia is using “human shields” as protection, detaining Thais in Poipet and refusing to allow their return, citing safety reasons. This has led people to decide to flee through natural routes to escape.
Amid ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, Cambodia has escalated by using heavy weapons against Thailand, spreading false news to the international community to tarnish Thailand’s image, and ultimately detaining thousands of Thais without permitting their return home. Questions arise whether this constitutes a human rights violation.
The situation at the permanent border crossing at Ban Khlong Luek Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province, where border crossings normally occur, is now completely closed. There are reports that Cambodian forces have snipers stationed, and during Thairath’s field visit, artillery fire was heard coming from Ban Nong Jan area.
Crossfire along the border is the excuse Cambodia uses to withhold Thais from returning, citing safety concerns. Cambodia also states that land border crossings are closed and that anyone wishing to return must do so by plane only.
Bird, a representative of the Thai Assistance Center abroad, revealed that information was released claiming Thais would be pushed back, but in reality, this was a plan to verify how many Thais remain in Poipet—estimated to be no fewer than 5,000.
“These Thais seem like the last usable resource for them. Thais are like pigs that have wandered into someone’s house; they can do whatever they want with them, whether to keep or sell them.”
Our team spoke with a Thai detained in Poipet by Cambodian authorities who chose to escape back via natural routes. He said Cambodian authorities did not care for the detained Thais, charging for food and accommodation. Life has been difficult, as Cambodians view Thais negatively. Many Thais want to return but remain detained.
“Thinking about past incidents where Thais harmed Cambodian workers, Cambodians now treat us the same. Even when we use Thai baht to buy snacks or food, they are reluctant to accept it.”
With legal routes closed, natural crossings have become the only option for Thais in Cambodia to flee back, increasing the workload for soldiers stationed along the border.
A soldier in the area disclosed that patrols continue as before but cannot be openly conducted as before. The military wants Thais to return; once they cross back, they will be cared for and processed accordingly.
Actions often reveal true intentions. Cambodia’s past behavior of using vulnerable civilians as “human shields” instead of military armor, deliberately detaining Thais under the pretext of safety, likely conceals ulterior motives that Cambodian leaders have cunningly employed before.
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