Investigation Confirms Thai Soldiers Fired First in Deadly Border Incident
Investigation Confirms Thai Soldiers Fired First in Deadly Border Incident
Phnom Penh, 26 November 2025 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation today formally briefed members of the Diplomatic Corps and International Organizations on the results of a preliminary investigation into the deadly shooting of Cambodian civilians by Thai armed forces on 12 November 2025 in Prey Chan village, O Bei Chorn Commune, O’Chrov District, Banteay Meanchey Province.
The session was led by Her Excellency Eat Sophea, Permanent Secretary of State, who reported that the investigation has clearly established that the Thai forces’ actions were entirely unprovoked, resulting in the tragic killing of one Cambodian civilian and injuries to three others.
The briefing stressed that no gunfire was discharged from the Cambodian side, either before or after Thai troops opened fire into the populated civilian area.
These findings were derived from a rigorous on-site investigation conducted on 13 November 2025 by the Cambodian National Police with the direct involvement of the ASEAN Observation Team (AOT) — ensuring neutrality, transparency, and credible verification in accordance with established regional mechanisms.
Her Excellency reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering adherence to the 28 July ceasefire agreement and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of 26 October 2025, calling on Thailand to demonstrate equal resolve and sincerity.
She expressed Cambodia’s strong rejection of unfounded accusations that Cambodian forces have engaged in the laying of new landmines — allegations made without evidence and counter to Cambodia’s internationally recognized mine-free commitments.
The Permanent Secretary of State conveyed deep regret over Thailand’s unilateral decision to suspend implementation of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration, following a landmine incident on 10 November 2025 involving Thai soldiers who crossed into a known contaminated area well inside Cambodian territory, as verified by maps of the Franco-Siamese Mixed Commission — the same official maps relied upon by the International Court of Justice in its landmark rulings of 1962 and 2013.
Cambodia reaffirmed its call for responsible dialogue, respect for international law, and strict adherence to agreed mechanisms to prevent further escalation and protect the safety and dignity of civilians living along the border.
