BANGKOK: It was reported on Friday (Nov 7) that Thailand is proceeding with the release of 18 Cambodian prisoners of war (POWs) after Cambodia completed the first phase of heavy weapon withdrawal and did not obstruct the mine clearance operation in five areas.
Originally, Cambodia had informed Thailand that the process would be completed by Nov 21, but later notified Thai authorities that it would be completed by Nov 10.
If Cambodia completes the procedure by Nov 10, Thailand will proceed with returning the 18 POWs as agreed. Prior to their transfer, there will be a medical check-up, and officials from the UN Security Council (UNSC) and Asean representatives (AOT) will observe the process.
The prisoners will then be moved from the 2nd Army Region to Chanthaburi, where they will stay overnight at the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defence Command.
The next day, they will be transported to the Ban Pakkad border checkpoint for handover to Cambodia on Nov 12.
In a surprising request, seven of the 18 prisoners asked for dental treatment. The Thai military inquired about the details, and it was reported that the prisoners wanted full dental work, which would cost approximately 10,000 baht per person.
The authorities, however, instructed the prisoners to have their dental treatment at home upon their return. - The Nation/ANN
