"Big Dul" Reveals Investigation Ordered After Cambodia Confirms No Cutting of Thai Flag or Sovereignty Violation

Today (April 21, 2026) at 8:30 AM, at the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence, addressed the disappearance of the Thai flag from the flagpole in the U-shaped area along the Thai-Cambodian border at Ban Phak Kat, Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi Province. He stated that initial reports from military units in the area indicate they have spoken with the Commander of the 3rd Military Region of the Royal Cambodian Army, who confirmed that they did not do it and did not violate Thai sovereignty.

However, Thailand is not blindly believing the Cambodian side and has ordered an investigation to find the perpetrator. It is uncertain whether it was the work of a person or caused by the wind, as the flag had been installed for a long time. He acknowledged, however, that images from local residents showed the flagpole rope had been cut. He added that border issues are common and must be resolved gradually according to the situation.

Regarding whether this incident reflects a deeper encroachment by Cambodia, Lt. Gen. Adul said that it depends on the situation and emphasized the importance of encouraging soldiers on the ground. He urged everyone to remain calm and resolve the problems through communication and inquiry, noting that the information received is just one level of intelligence.