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In May, 1981, The Thai Cabinet decided that the two refugee camps for Vietnamese boat people, Songkhla and Laem Sing, would be closed and their 7000 residents moved to Panat Nikhom. Moreover, NW-9, the border camp for VN land refugees coming across Cambodia, would also be closed. Vietnamese arriving by boats, Thailand later clarified, would be send to Sikhiu, an austere camp along the lines of Na Pho. The cutoff date of 15 Aug 1981 was set for resettlement of Vietnamese and Laotians. Arrivals after that date, announced a Supreme Command spokesman, would be send to detention camps. The future of those in detention is not clear, said Lieutenent Clonel Soonthorn Sophonsiri, “ but no resettlement opportunities will be offered, possibly for several years. |
