Second Army Region commander inspects Hill 642, orders tighter defences

BURIRAM — 1 November 2026, The Second Army Region commander has personally inspected Hill 642 along the Thai-Cambodian border, spending more than two hours assessing the terrain and security situation before ordering troops to reinforce defensive positions with barbed wire and heavy weapons following reports of Cambodian soldiers attempting to climb to the cliff top.

Reports said Thai forces had cut ropes allegedly tied to trees by Cambodian troops attempting to climb up to the top of the cliff at Hill 642.

Thai troops have since installed barbed-wire barriers along the cliff and deployed personnel at strategic positions to prevent incursions and maintain security in the area.

Lt. Gen. Weerayut Raksin, commander of the Second Army Region, personally visited Hill 642 and inspected the cliff line, spending more than two hours examining the terrain and assessing the situation.

The 3rd Task Force has completed troop deployments and installed barbed-wire barriers along both the eastern and western sides of the cliff top. Heavy weapons have also been brought into the area and placed on standby to support military operations should any incident threaten the area’s security.

The local task force commander has reportedly warned Cambodian forces not to enter the area. Any violation or approach towards the defensive line would prompt a response under established military rules of engagement.

The measures would begin with warning shots fired into the air. If the troops continued advancing towards the barbed-wire barriers, live ammunition would be used in accordance with the prescribed procedures.

Reports also indicated that Cambodian troops attempted to approach the barbed-wire line last week, prompting Thai forces to fire live warning shots. The Cambodian personnel subsequently retreated down the mountain.

The military said all operations were conducted in accordance with self-defence measures and efforts to safeguard security within Thai sovereign territory, with the safety of local residents remaining a priority.

The Second Army Region commander continues to inspect border positions every week, staying overnight in the area and personally drawing up situation maps to familiarise himself with the terrain, monitor developments and closely assess the security situation.

Although he does not frequently appear in the media, his duties and supervision of the border situation remain ongoing.

The military assured the public that troops stationed along the border remained on high alert, exercising caution and maintaining readiness to respond to any situation to protect national sovereignty and public safety.