Soldier killed in firefight: Asian nation closing borders for tourists to neighbour

Things really took a turn for the worse after an armed confrontation resulted in a soldier being killed.

What is happening?

Thailand has imposed border restrictions, effectively banning tourists from going to neighbouring Cambodia via the Thailand/Combodia-border, several news outlets report.

The details

According Reuters, the new restrictions, which went into effect Monday, means that Thailand will increase screening of travellers between the two cvountries, with the purpose of preventing tourists from entering Cambodia.

Only individuals with “essential needs”

In a statement, the Military Forces of Thailand, explained that the restrictions are put in place at all border checkpoints in five regions, and that only individuals with “essential needs” are allowed to pass.

Why are they doing it?

The two South East Asian Nations are involved in a border conclict that continues to escalate.

The Emerald Triangle

According to Time Magazine , the dispute circles around an area called “The Emerald Triangle”.

It’s a joint border area between Thailand, Cambodia and Laos.

Soldier shot

The conflict escalated massively in late May, when a Combodian soldier was killed in an armed confrontation in the contested area.

The two nations have continued to blame each other for the incident.

Attempts at de-escalation failed

According to ABC, attempts at de-escalation has filed, and the two nations have continued to issue threats of imposing restrictions aimed at the opposing nation.

Cambodia bans Thai fruits and veggies

Earlier this year, Cambodia has banned import of fruits and vegetables from Thailand as well as banning Thai movies and tv on television and in cinemas.