In a powerful demonstration of commitment to citizen safety, Thailand's security forces are conducting extensive operations to clear explosives from border communities in Trat and Buri Ram provinces, bringing peace of mind back to residents affected by December's border conflict.

Royal Thai Navy divers, Explosive Ordnance Disposal units, the Thailand Mine Action Centre, and local police are working together in a coordinated effort that showcases the nation's dedication to protecting its communities. On Thursday, teams in Ban Nong Ree, Trat province, carefully excavated shell craters and recovered fragments from 122mm artillery shells, demonstrating the meticulous care being taken to ensure every area is thoroughly checked and cleared.

The comprehensive safety measures being implemented are truly impressive. A 300-meter safety cordon was established to protect residents during disposal operations, while community leaders worked hand in hand with security forces to coordinate temporary farming pauses. This collaboration between authorities and local communities exemplifies the spirit of cooperation that makes Thailand's response so effective.

In Buri Ram's Ban Kruat district, police EOD teams have been conducting intensive searches across rubber plantations, cassava fields, sugarcane farms, forests, and public water sources. Their dedication has paid off significantly, with authorities successfully identifying 158 exploded munitions and five unexploded rockets so far. This thorough approach ensures that every corner of the affected areas receives attention.

Village security volunteer Somwien Suksit noted the positive change in community awareness, with residents becoming increasingly vigilant and proactive in checking their own properties. This grassroots involvement, combined with professional expertise, creates a powerful safety network. Authorities have clearly communicated safety protocols to villagers: remember the location of any suspicious items, do not touch them, and report immediately.

The Bright Side: While the situation has understandably caused anxiety among border residents, the response demonstrates exactly what communities need during challenging times: swift, professional action combined with clear communication and genuine care for citizen welfare. The fact that durian plantation owner Manit Nakhiran escaped harm during the December incident, and that no casualties have been reported from unexploded ordnance, speaks to both good fortune and the effectiveness of evacuation procedures.

Village head Napatchara Rattanawan's proactive approach in urging residents to inspect their land and report findings shows strong local leadership working in concert with national security forces. This two-way communication ensures that the clearance operations can be as comprehensive as possible.

The professionalism and thoroughness of Thailand's response teams, working across multiple agencies and provinces, represents a significant investment in community safety. Every munition identified and cleared is one less danger to farmers, families, and children who call these border communities home. The ongoing operations promise to restore normalcy and allow residents to return to their daily lives with confidence, knowing that expert teams are working diligently to protect them.