Thai Senator Condemns Border Sound Attacks as Potential Psychological Torture
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A Thai senator has ignited a national debate after publicly criticizing an influencer’s actions near the Cambodian border, alleging the deliberate use of disturbing sounds constitutes psychological torture under international law. The controversy centers around Mr. Kanthat Pongpaiboonwet, known as “Gun Jom Phalang,” who reportedly drove a vehicle equipped with a sound system playing sounds of ghosts and fighter planes directed towards Cambodian civilians in Sa Kaeo Province.
On October 17, 2025, Senator Angkana Neelapaijit voiced her concerns on Facebook, stating the actions posed a danger to the physical and mental health of those living near the border. She further suggested the acts could be construed as a violation of the Convention Against Torture (CAT), to which Thailand is a signatory. This assertion has sparked a fierce backlash, with many publicly disagreeing with the Senator’s assessment.
Escalating Tensions and Online Harassment
The initial criticism quickly escalated into a broader online conflict. Senator Neelapaijit recently shared a disturbing account of receiving threatening messages, specifically mentioning harassment directed towards individuals over 100 years of age. “How cruel must the heart be? To the point of sending threatening messages to 100+ year olds,” she posted, alongside a screenshot of a Facebook user’s profile.
The profile reportedly contained a message stating, “I don’t hate Khmer people, but I hate you,” accompanied by a Messenger communication referencing a child: “Pa, look at the baby too. My son, a Thai person with a Khmer heart.” This message, according to Senator Neelapaijit, reflects concern from individuals with familial ties to both Thailand and Cambodia.
International Law and the Definition of Torture
The Senator’s invocation of the Convention Against Torture is significant. The CAT defines torture broadly, encompassing not only physical harm but also severe mental pain or suffering inflicted intentionally. While the application of this definition to the alleged sound attacks remains contested, the incident raises important questions about the boundaries of acceptable behavior and the potential for psychological harm to be considered a form of abuse under international law.
The debate highlights the complex relationship between Thailand and Cambodia, particularly in border regions. It also underscores the growing influence of social media in shaping public discourse and amplifying potentially harmful actions. The incident has prompted widespread discussion and expressions of support for Senator Neelapaijit, demonstrating a clear division in public opinion regarding the influencer’s actions and their legal implications.
