Updated: Asia operator ‘monitoring situation’ after clashes on Thai-Cambodia border

Military action on the disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia is “far from” major tourist destinations, according to leading operator to Asia.

 

Inside Travel Group, which runs the Inside Asia brand, said it was monitoring the situation. 

 

Twelve people have reportedly been killed in clashes between Thai and Cambodia troops.

 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirmed that land border crossings between the two countries are temporarily suspended. 

 

An update from the FCDO on Thursday for Thailand and Cambodia advised against all but essential travel to within 50km of the border from Cambodia in the provinces of Buriram, Si Saket, Surin and Ubon Ratchathani

 

“There are reports of fighting including rocket and artillery fire on 24 July between Thailand and Cambodia at several locations along the border,” the advisory warned. 

 

“Casualties have been reported, as well as evacuations of areas close to the border. 

 

"Land borders/crossings between Thailand and Cambodia have been suspended. 

 

“Some tourist destinations in border areas such as the Khao Phra Wihan/Preah Vihear temple, the Ta Kwai/Ta Krabey temple and the Ta Muen Thom/Tamone Thom temple are currently closed.

 

“There are also unexploded landmines in the border area.

 

“We advise against all but essential travel to the affected border areas.”

 

The FCDO previously said: "The line of the international border near the Preah Vihear temple (‘Khaoi Pra Viharn’ in Thai) has been in dispute between Cambodia and Thailand, with occasional clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops. 

 

“There have also been disputes over control of the Ta Moan and Ta Krabey temples, which are close to the Cambodia-Thailand border.

 

“Take extra care when travelling in this area, and follow the instructions of the local authorities.”

 

An Inside Travel group spokesperson said: “Increased military activity and clashes along a section of a long-disputed Thailand and Cambodian border has been reported today, along with the sad news of 12 deaths and has also resulted in land borders between the two nations to close. 

“Importantly, the affected area is far from any major tourist destinations and all customer travel within both Cambodia and Thailand is expected to continue as normal.

 

“Inside Travel’s highest priority is always customer safety and enjoyment of their trip. Inside Travel’s 24-hour customer support team is in contact with partners and customers on the ground to provide reassurance.

 

“At this stage, both Thailand and Cambodia remain safe to travel in. 

 

“Inside Travel’s CX [customer experience] team continues to monitor the situation with the help of its partners and will be ready to take appropriate action if required.”