Cambodia has appealed to its citizens to avoid travel in Thailand, warning against non-essential travel even to Bangkok ahead of a contentious court decision there.
“Those who live there should avoid demonstrations and gatherings, to avoid any danger,” Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Koy Kuong told VOA Khmer Monday.
The warning comes as Thailand’s Supreme Court prepares to issue a decision on whether to seize $2.2 billion from ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who remains popular with many Thais.
Thaksin has been appointed an economic adviser to Prime Minister Hun Sen, a move that has nettled Bangkok and brought about a diplomatic crisis between the neighbors, who already have troops amassed along a contested border near Preah Vihear temple.
An estimated 200,000 Cambodians are employed in Thailand, with some of them crossing the border each day to find work.
Many cross illegally, and a Thai court this week sentenced six Cambodians to more than two years in jail for illegal entry and logging, after they were caught cutting rattan in Surin province.