Thai Army Defends Buddha Statue at Chong Bok Border

The Royal Thai Army Addresses Border Concerns

The Royal Thai Army has defended its actions along the Thai-Cambodian border after Phnom Penh lodged a protest over the construction of a Buddha statue, the installation of Thai flags, and the placement of barbed wire in the area.

Army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree stated on Tuesday that all activities occurred within Thai sovereign territory and under Thai control.

Purpose of the Buddha Statue and Flag Installations

Winthai Suvaree explained that the installations were carried out in line with Thai laws and regulations to boost morale among troops and local residents.

He described the Buddha statue as a spiritual anchor that provides morale support for personnel operating along the border.

Cambodia's Formal Protest

Cambodia submitted a formal protest claiming that Thailand's activities in the border area included construction works, flag installations and barbed wire placement that could affect border stability.

Winthai Suvaree rejected these claims directly.

Barbed Wire Placement in Chong Bok

The barbed wire in the Chong Bok area serves as a security measure within Thai territory aimed at protecting personnel, reducing the risk of confrontation, and preventing misunderstandings between forces on both sides.

These steps align with efforts to de-escalate tensions and maintain stability along the frontier.

Adherence to the December 2025 Ceasefire

The Thai Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and ensuring the safety of communities along the border while adhering strictly to the joint ceasefire statement signed by Thailand and Cambodia on 27 December 2025.

Officials continue to use bilateral mechanisms to manage border issues, which supports steady relations for Thai communities near the frontier.

Implications for Thai Border Residents

These measures matter for Thai readers because they reinforce protection for local communities and troops through culturally resonant elements like the Buddha statue, fostering a sense of security without escalating disputes.

By staying within Thai territory and following the 2025 agreement, the actions help preserve peace that directly benefits daily life in border areas such as Chong Bok.