Transborder News, April 19, 2025— Rangsiman Rome, Chair of the House Committee on National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and Reform, gave an interview to Transborder News, on the plans to lead a fact-finding mission to Chiang Rai province from May 7–8. The visit aims to investigate alarming reports of heavy metal contamination — particularly arsenic — in the Kok and Sai Rivers, sparking serious concerns among local communities.
Rangsiman underscored that the contamination points to broader security and environmental issues stemming from activities linked to the United Wa State Army (UWSA), including illegal gold mining and cross-border incursions. He criticized the Thai government for its lack of decisive action, warning that ongoing inaction would only worsen the crisis.
“The pollution of the Kok and Sai Rivers is undeniable evidence that demands urgent government intervention,” Rangsiman said. “While there may be debate over how to proceed, what matters now is sending a clear and serious signal that we intend to solve this.”
Acknowledging the cross-border complexities, Rangsiman stressed that Thailand cannot afford to stay passive while Thai citizens endure environmental damage and health risks. He and MP Chulalak Khansutham of Mae Sai will conduct a ground inspection to gather firsthand evidence and push for immediate action.
In response to questions about tackling the arsenic pollution originating from gold mines in Myanmar’s Shan State, Rangsiman called for serious diplomatic engagement with the UWSA. He urged the government to deliver a strong message of dissatisfaction and explore pressure tactics, highlighting that the issues extend beyond water pollution to PM2.5 air pollution and narcotics trafficking.
“Border violations, no matter by whom, warrant at least a formal protest,” he said. “Given the scale of these impacts, Thailand must act firmly to protect its people. We must also consider which international mechanisms might influence them.”
Rangsiman warned that unless Thailand confronts these issues openly and decisively, they will continue to harm local communities.
He acknowledged that Thailand values friendly ties with neighbors, but argued that the UWSA’s actions contradict the principles of good neighborliness. “If we keep dismissing these problems as foreign affairs, we will never solve them,” he said.
“Of course, we should first offer diplomacy — the rose — to avoid conflict. But if diplomacy fails, the government must not hesitate to apply stronger measures. Thai citizens should not be left to suffer because the state refuses to act,” Rangsiman emphasized.
He called on the government to engage directly with foreign entities causing harm to Thai citizens and to abandon the habit of sweeping border problems under the rug.
Asked whether Thailand had a clear strategy toward the UWSA, Rangsiman said it remained uncertain — either no such policy exists, or it has not been effectively communicated.
He noted the existence of a Border Policy Committee chaired by the Chief of Defense Forces, reflecting some efforts. However, Rangsiman criticized Thailand’s fragmented bureaucracy, with multiple agencies working separately without a unified strategy.
“What we urgently need now is a clear lead agency, a concrete plan, and measurable objectives,” he concluded. “Without clear leadership, frontline personnel are left guessing. We need decisive coordination, not confusion.”
See original Thai article, https://transbordernews.in.th/home/?p=42165
