Thailand bans drones over Cambodia tensions as tourists warned of jail, fines
The two-week ban is tied to fears Cambodia could use the devices to gather military intelligence
“Operating any unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) across the country during this period is strictly prohibited,” the Thai aviation authority said in a statement released on Thursday.
Offenders face up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of 40,000 baht (US$1,230), it said, adding that “military and security forces are authorised to neutralise unauthorised drones deemed a threat”.
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The ban – in place until at least August 14 – is expected to affect thousands of foreign visitors, particularly social media influencers and hobbyists who use drones to capture footage of the kingdom’s beaches, temples and mountain landscapes.
Local media reports say some tourists have voiced frustration at having their drones confiscated, claiming they were unaware of the ban. While most travellers are far from the eastern conflict zone – in destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai or Pattaya – the ban applies nationwide.