CMAC Says Over 1,300 Unexploded Ordnance Found at Preah Vihear Temple
CMAC Says Over 1,300 Unexploded Ordnance Found at Preah Vihear Temple
PREAH VIHEAR, March 15, 2026 — Cambodian demining teams have discovered more than 1,300 pieces of unexploded ordnance around the Preah Vihear temple complex, officials said, following military clashes between Cambodia and Thailand late last year.
Chheng Senglim, deputy commander of the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), told local and international media that the explosives were found after a ceasefire took effect, as demining teams began clearing the area.
“From the time the ceasefire began until March 14, CMAC teams have discovered and removed more than 1,330 explosive devices, and operations are continuing as experts search for additional ordnance,” he said.
According to CMAC officials, many of the munitions found were 105-mm and 155-mm artillery shells, along with other types of explosive weapons allegedly used during the 21-day conflict in December 2025 along the Cambodia–Thailand border.
Officials also said that some white phosphorus (WP) munitions and cluster-type explosives had been identified among the remnants.
The Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the Cambodia–Thailand border, suffered damage during the fighting, Cambodian authorities said.
Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has condemned the attacks, saying the use of heavy weapons near the temple caused serious damage to structures and surrounding areas and disrupted conservation efforts.
The ministry said several sections of the temple complex — including gopuras (gateways), northern stairways and surrounding zones — were affected.
The clashes in late 2025 forced the evacuation of officials, workers and residents from nearby areas as fighting intensified.
Cambodia has accused Thai forces of damaging the temple complex, calling the attacks a serious violation of international law and an assault on world heritage, while demining teams continue operations to make the area safe.
