Thai army highlights past shelter for 160,000 Cambodian refugees amid border dispute

On Friday, November 13, the Royal Thai Army invited ASEAN observers and Thai and foreign journalists to the Khao I Dang Historical Learning Centre in Khok Sung district, highlighting the country's past humanitarian efforts for over 160,000 Cambodian refugees. The visit was organized by the army chief, Gen Pana Klaewplodthuk, and showcased Thailand's provision of shelter, food, water, medical care, and security to the displaced population.

The Khao I Dang camp, covering more than 400 rai of land, was established to accommodate Cambodians fleeing conflict, fighting, and food shortages in their homeland. The Thai army maintained that the continued occupation of the disputed land did not grant legal rights to the residents and that those residing without authorization should be subject to Thai legal procedures.

The delegation toured the Nanthawong military outpost in Ban Nong Chan, where some Cambodian refugee residents had expanded their farmland and buildings into territory Thailand considers its own. Historical maps and photographs were presented to illustrate changes in settlement patterns and land use over time.

Thai army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree criticized Cambodia for presenting misleading information about the border situation and accused the nation of linking border disputes to humanitarian allegations against Thailand. Winthai emphasized Thailand's commitment to humanitarian principles and its willingness to provide evidence and clarify its position on the history of settlements, territorial claims, and their impact on local communities.