BANGKOK, July 16 (TNA) – The Royal Thai Army on Wednesday stated that a recent incident at Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin province was a “misunderstanding” by a Cambodian tourist.
Reports on Tuesday afternoon described a confrontation between a Cambodian tourist and Thai soldiers at the temple, located in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin.
Colonel Ritcha Suksawanon, Deputy Spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, explained that a Cambodian female tourist loudly accused Thai soldiers, who were counting visitors near the temple’s entrance on the Cambodian side, of encroaching on Cambodian sovereignty.
Thai officials clarified that Ta Muen Thom temple is within Thai sovereign territory and denied the alleged encroachment.
Upon discovering the situation, Thai and Cambodian soldiers stationed nearby intervened to mediate. Thai authorities temporarily cleared the area for safety and to prevent escalation.
Following negotiations, both sides reached a mutual understanding, and the situation was peacefully resolved. Officials from both countries have since returned to their regular duties.
The temple reopened later than usual Wednesday morning, following security discussions among high-ranking officials. Despite the previous day’s disturbance, visitor numbers remained robust, with many tourists reportedly arriving to show support for the officials and explore the ancient site.
Local authorities in Phanom Dong Rak district confirmed that Wednesday’s atmosphere was typically lively. They noted that weekend visitor numbers usually average between 5,000 to 6,000 people.
The Royal Thai Army also thanked Thai citizens visiting the temple for their support, recognizing them as vital in upholding border security and national sovereignty. -819 (TNA)
