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Bomb disposal units report that they have discovered over 120 shells from the recent Thai-Cambodian border clash, primarily in rubber farms, while ongoing efforts aim to secure farming regions within the Ban Kruat district of this northeastern border province.

The shells were left behind from conflicts along the border between December 7 and 27, when a truce was established. Several of them did not explode, creating a significant danger for farmers who are returning to their land. In just one plantation, five shells were found on Tuesday in the tambon of Chanthobphet, located in the Ban Kruat district.

So far, authorities have retrieved 121 shells, with 116 of them having detonated. Five live shells were removed for safe destruction. The items recovered consisted of artillery shells along with 60, 82, and 100mm mortar rounds.

The Tuesday operation was conducted by an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team headed by Pol Capt Charoenchai Munchai, the deputy chief investigator of Buri Ram Provincial Police, together with staff from the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC) of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, local officials, and community representatives.

Teams will keep conducting sweep operations to guarantee the area is secure for residents and agricultural work. Authorities emphasized the importance of restoring safety and trust within the community.

Metha Phluekrungrot, an assistant village head and community defense volunteer in tambon Chanthobphet, mentioned that two of his rubber plantations were damaged when five shells—three artillery shells and two 100mm mortar rounds—hit the area, impacting over two rai of rubber trees.

He mentioned that the EOD and TMAC teams had finished the clearance process, while agricultural authorities had evaluated the damage.

In the local community, shells were predominantly discovered in areas used for growing rubber and cassava, with no indications of effects on living spaces.

Mr. Metha expressed worry regarding the border conditions. Locals continued to feel anxious since the situation remained uncertain, he mentioned.

Two distinct phases of violent clashes – occurring in July and December – compelled tens of thousands of people living near the border to seek refuge in evacuation centers located deeper within the country, causing interruptions in their means of earning a living, commercial activities, and education.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).