Thai authorities have arrested a man suspected of being a Cambodian spy in a high-security operation near the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin province, heightening ongoing concerns over national security and military espionage.
According to reports, the suspect was detained in the Phanom Dong Rak district on 27 July 2025 while allegedly gathering intelligence on Thai military positions. Police discovered documents and photographs in the man’s possession that are believed to contain sensitive data, including coordinates of strategic military sites along the border.
The arrest was first reported through a Facebook post by local commentator Prat Sam Si. It has since prompted Thai officials to call for heightened border surveillance and vigilance among residents. Locals living near military installations have been urged to report any suspicious individuals — especially those taking photographs, riding repeatedly past army sites, or appearing to log coordinates — by contacting nearby police stations or dialling 191 for urgent assistance.
Heightened Border Tensions After Rocket Attack
This incident comes amid a surge in Thai-Cambodian border tensions, following an artillery strike launched by Cambodian military forces targeting the historic Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple. The attack, which involved BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, caused significant damage to the ancient heritage site, sparking national outrage across Thailand.
Images shared by the Army Military Force – Reserve Facebook page showed the extent of destruction inflicted not only on Prasat Ta Muen Thom, but also on nearby zones including Chong An Ma, which had recently been secured by Thai forces. The strike has been widely condemned as a blatant act of aggression and cultural desecration.
Growing Calls for Security and Sovereignty Protection
In response to the escalating conflict and espionage fears, security analysts and the public alike are calling for the Thai government to implement stricter border controls and surveillance technologies. The public has also expressed anger on social media, accusing Cambodia of hypocrisy — claiming heritage ownership while simultaneously destroying the very structures they profess to protect.
As the military conflict intensifies, the Royal Thai Government is expected to review its border defence strategy, including troop deployments, intelligence countermeasures, and civilian safety protocols.
This arrest marks the second suspected espionage case involving Cambodian nationals this month, underscoring rising instability in the region. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm but alert, and to cooperate fully with law enforcement as Thailand seeks to preserve both its sovereignty and its cultural legacy.