Post by : Rameen Ariff

BURIRAM, Thailand – In the rural outskirts of Thailand, just ten kilometres from the disputed Cambodian border, Narongchai Putthet, a 60-year-old farmer-turned-security volunteer, stands vigil at a roadside checkpoint. Dressed in his navy blue uniform, his rifle slung across his shoulder, he is among a small group of villagers risking their lives to protect their homes and livestock during escalating border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.

These renewed skirmishes, which have claimed at least 27 lives, are rooted in a long-standing dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of the 800-kilometre border separating the two Southeast Asian nations. In the midst of military bombardments and widespread evacuations, volunteers like Narongchai have become the eyes and ears of their deserted communities.

“We don’t get a salary or any allowance, but it is worth it,” Narongchai said. “At least we get to help our fellow villagers. We do it with a volunteer's heart.”

Leading the team of 20 volunteers is Komkai Seehanam, 55, the head of a village in Buriram province. He oversees safeguarding the property of around 500 residents who have evacuated for safety. “Am I afraid? Of course,” Komkai admitted. “But some of us need to stay behind and look after our neighbours’ homes. We truly care.”

With more than 250,000 Thais now taking shelter elsewhere and tens of thousands displaced, only a few remain to guard their villages. These volunteers follow strict routines, napping in bunkers during the day and patrolling at night. They know every house, field, and livestock pen in their village. During their rounds, they feed cows, give water to dogs, and check on empty homes, ensuring nothing is looted or damaged.

Volunteers like Narongchai and Komkai were trained by the army, police, and local authorities in survival skills, first aid, and handling unexploded ordnance. “They showed us how far bullets can travel, where shells might land, and what to do if one doesn’t explode,” Komkai explained. “This knowledge helps us protect others. Everyone’s safety comes first.”

Meanwhile, families of volunteers wait anxiously at evacuation shelters. Narongchai’s wife, Uthai Putthet, sits at a shelter in Buriram’s Chang International Circuit, 70 kilometres from the village, constantly checking her husband’s safety through phone calls. “How are things right now? Have you eaten anything today?” she asked. The prolonged fighting has kept families apart, with uncertainty about how long they will remain separated. “People are wondering if this will last for months or even up to a year,” Uthai said.

The volunteers’ commitment has earned admiration from the community. Despite fear and danger, they continue to patrol under fire, protecting homes, fields, and livestock. “Even if a ceasefire is declared, we will still be on edge,” Narongchai said, standing firm at his post.

The border conflict has highlighted the courage and resilience of local Thai communities. While the military exchanges dominate headlines, it is these villagers who quietly uphold safety, showing a steadfast dedication to their homeland and neighbours. Their sacrifices, though unsalaried, are a testament to the spirit of solidarity amid one of Southeast Asia’s most enduring border disputes.

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