Cambodia Says Thai Troops Fired During Foreign Attachés’ Border Visit

Cambodia Says Thai Troops Fired During Foreign Attachés’ Border Visit

ODDAR MEANCHEY, April 29 — Cambodian defence officials said Thai military forces fired multiple rounds near a border checkpoint on Wednesday while foreign military attachés were visiting the area to observe ceasefire conditions.

The incident occurred at the O’Smach International Border Checkpoint in Oddar Meanchey province during an official observation tour involving the Military Attachés Corps in Phnom Penh, according to a statement from Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence.

Cambodia said five instances of gunfire were recorded between 10:35 a.m. and 11:09 a.m., with a total of nine rounds fired from M79 and M16 weapons.

The visit had been organised in advance, with Cambodian authorities notifying their Thai counterparts through the Regional Border Committee mechanism prior to the tour.

Cambodian officials described the gunfire as contrary to the spirit of the ceasefire agreement and existing bilateral commitments aimed at reducing tensions along the border.

No casualties were reported.

The ministry said Cambodian forces remain vigilant and committed to protecting territorial integrity, while reiterating the country’s position that disputes should be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law and bilateral agreements.

The visit by foreign military attachés was part of ongoing efforts to promote transparency and confidence-building following the ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand.

Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to fully implementing agreements reached under the General Border Committee framework and other bilateral mechanisms, calling for continued adherence by both sides to maintain peace and stability along the frontier.