Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed a fabricated AI-generated audio clip circulated by a Cambodian online influencer. The clip impersonates the Thai prime minister’s voice, falsely claiming that border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia will reopen soon.
Fake Audio Debunked
Anutin firmly denied making any such statements, emphasizing that border checkpoints will remain closed. “I do not speak like that. These tactics are becoming less credible every day,” he stated.
Response to Maritime Claims Dispute
Anutin also addressed Cambodia’s refusal to engage in bilateral talks following Thailand’s cancellation of the 2001 memorandum of understanding on overlapping maritime claims, known as MoU 44. He asserted that Thailand holds the right to revoke the agreement independently, without needing approval from any other party.
During the ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines, Anutin informed Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet of Thailand’s stance. Cambodia acknowledged the decision but voiced disappointment. Thailand plans to resolve the issue through mechanisms outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Anutin noted that Cambodia’s mention of compulsory conciliation aligns with its own position in the dispute.
“Thailand is not under pressure. We will continue to follow international mechanisms,” Anutin affirmed.
Border Detentions and Humanitarian Approach
Regarding Thai nationals detained by Cambodian soldiers while foraging near the border, authorities are coordinating efforts to provide assistance. In the past, Cambodians who entered Thailand non-threateningly received treatment based on humanitarian principles.
“This is a problem between governments, not between people. Thais and Cambodians are not enemies,” the prime minister emphasized.
Enhanced Border Security Measures
Army Chief-of-Staff Chaipruak Doungprapat announced that troops will bolster border controls and ramp up patrols using sensors and drones. This follows reports of Cambodian soldiers entering forested areas around Chong Sai Taku in Buri Ram province.
Given the complex, densely forested terrain, such incursions may occur accidentally during foraging or routine patrols, he explained. Chaipruak urged villagers to notify local officials before entering border forest zones.
