Excavator Hits Landmine During Road Construction in Surin Border Area, Causing Minor Injuries

Key summary

On October 24, 2026, at approximately 11:15 a.m., the Second Army Region reported an incident in Bua Chet District, Surin Province. While a backhoe operated by the Special Unit 2 and volunteers from Luang Ta Yuen's volunteer corps was excavating a tactical route from Hill 429 to Chong Phrik to support border operations, the bucket struck a landmine buried underground, causing an explosion. The driver of the backhoe sustained minor injuries and was immediately transported to Bua Chet Hospital for treatment; he is now stable and has returned home for recovery. The Second Army Region temporarily halted construction in the area and cordoned off the site for explosive ordnance disposal units and relevant officials to inspect, identify the type of mine, and assess safety before further action. Details regarding the specific type and size of the landmine are currently under investigation by specialized personnel and have not yet been confirmed.