Recently, residents of Bang Kaeo County in Buriram Province, Thailand, collectively expressed their support for the government's closure of the "Khong Sai Thot" border port. They believe that this measure will help block the large influx of gambling funds into Cambodian casinos, curb the local gambling problem, and protect national sovereignty and social stability.
Although the closure of the port will have a short-term impact on border trade and the livelihoods of traders, the villagers generally believe that this cost is acceptable. Residents pointed out that in recent years, a large number of Thais have gone to Cambodian casinos, fallen into debt traps, and even had to sell their rubber plantations to pay off debts, plunging their family lives into crisis.
In contrast, the Cambodian side mainly purchases Thai products, yet Thai funds continuously flow out to the gambling industry, creating a highly imbalanced situation. In response, the public generally supports the tough stance of Thailand's Second Army Region and calls for further strengthening of border control.
At the same time, some villagers are directing their criticism towards Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, questioning the "port agreement" he reached with former Cambodian officials, which they believe harms national interests. They demand that he take responsibility and resign. This incident reflects the deep concerns of border residents about the harms of gambling and their strong will to protect national interests.
