Hundreds of Cambodian security personnel blocked all access to the border crossing at Poipet, in the northwestern province of Banteay Meanchey, on Saturday, ahead of opposition leader Sam Rainsy’s planned return to the country.
The opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) was expected to return to the country on November 9, using the land border with Thailand at Poipet. The Cambodian government in response had deployed hundreds of mixed security forces, including army personnel, to fortify the border crossing. The security forces could be seen stationed at makeshift barracks on Friday, just outside the town.
Security forces blocked multiple intersections on National Road 5 leading to the border crossing, preventing residents of the border town, casino and market workers, and international tourists from accessing the border.
