'Royal Thai Navy' clarifies 'Chinese citizen' removing barbed wire, Reaffirms control along existing boundary

On January 15, 2026, Chinese nationals dismantled barbed wire fences in Ban Tha Som, Trat Province. The Trat Marine Corps Task Force placed the fences as part of a troop deployment line and area control agreement signed by both countries' Ministers of Defense on December 27, 2026.

/Photo: Naval Spokeperson

Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, states that the individuals who destroyed the barbed wire barrier were Chinese nationals who had companies in the vicinity. They removed a portion of the fence in order to reclaim their items from the shops located along it. When the military discovered this, they interfered and halted their operations. Initial interrogation indicated no intention to disrupt Thai military operations. However, the act was arbitrary, affecting state security measures. As a result, the Chinese men received a warning and an explanation.

/Photo: Naval Spokeperson

Furthermore, the Trat Marine Corps Task Force swiftly dispatched personnel to handle the situation. The individuals involved were removed from the area using proper procedures. Simultaneously, the barbed wire barrier was rebuilt and fortified to ensure clear troop deployment and continuity of military security measures. Furthermore, area control measures were implemented to avoid similar situations from occurring again.

The Royal Thai Navy maintains that all steps were handled sensibly and in accordance with the two countries' cooperation agreement. Thailand remains firmly committed to the values outlined in the Joint Statement, which both countries agreed to in order to maintain border stability, security, and good relations.

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Source of material: official media /online news