Cambodian Forces Injured in Explosion Within Sovereign Territory, Authorities Coordinate With Thailand

Cambodian Forces Injured in Explosion Within Sovereign Territory, Authorities Coordinate With Thailand

Phnom Penh, 6 January 2026 — The Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia has confirmed an incident involving an explosion that injured two Cambodian military personnel while they were performing their duties within Cambodia’s sovereign territory in Mum Bei area, Preah Vihear Province, on the morning of 6 January 2026.

According to H.E. Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokeswoman of the Ministry of National Defence, at approximately 7:27 a.m., Cambodian forces were conducting routine organization and orderliness arrangements at their stationed area when an explosion occurred originating from a pile of garbage nearby. The incident resulted in one minor injury and one serious injury. Both injured personnel were promptly evacuated and transported to hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.

The Ministry stated that the Cambodia–Thailand Border Coordination Working Team is actively addressing the incident. Working teams from both countries have engaged in consultations, exchanged information, and are jointly handling the matter through established bilateral mechanisms.

The Ministry of National Defence reaffirmed that, guided by the spirit of peaceful settlement of disputes and full respect for international law, the Royal Government of Cambodia and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces remain firmly and sincerely committed to the strict implementation of all bilateral agreements between Cambodia and Thailand. These include the Ceasefire Agreement of 28 July 2025, the Joint Declaration on Peace signed on 26 October 2025, the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee of 27 December 2025, as well as other relevant documents.

Cambodia emphasized that these commitments reflect its high sense of responsibility and genuine dedication to peace, with the objective of swiftly restoring normalcy, peace, stability, and security for communities living along the border areas of both countries.

The Ministry of National Defence concluded by informing the public and national and international media of the facts surrounding the incident and reiterated Cambodia’s resolve to address all border-related matters through dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful means.