Youk Chhang Slams Thai Military’s “Immature and Lawless” Border Tactics

Youk Chhang (left), Director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-Cam)

PHNOM PENH, October 14, 2025 — The Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-Cam) has strongly criticized the continued use of disturbing sounds by the Royal Thai Armed Forces as a form of psychological intimidation and harassment against Cambodian civilians along the border, describing it as “a display of immaturity and a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the peace process.”

In a statement titled “Khun Thafta-Lauk Jing-Loei, the Twisted Thai Policies,” DC-Cam Director Youk Chhang condemned the Thai army’s actions, stressing that such behavior reflects poorly on the professionalism and maturity expected of a disciplined military force.

“The hallmark of a professional and mature military is an adherence to discipline, military values, and a respect for the rule of law. Military organizations that harass innocent civilians are not living up to the standards of a world-class military,” Chhang stated.
“They are adopting the behavior and standards of those unlawful groups that exist outside the boundaries of professional organizations, such as thugs, mobsters or outlaws,” he continued.

The DC-Cam Director urged the Cambodian public and the international community to recognize and call out this “outrageous immaturity” from Thailand, affirming that Cambodia will respond with dignity and determination.

“We should respond with solemn and respectful resolve that the Cambodian Nation is above such irresponsible behavior and cannot be moved by such petty immaturity,” he added.

The statement follows ongoing reports that, for the fourth consecutive night, Thai armed forces have been broadcasting disturbing noises—including haunting sounds and aircraft engine roars—across the border into Cambodian villages in Prey Chan and Chouk Chey, O’Bei Choan Commune, O’Chrov District, Banteay Meanchey Province.

These actions, observers note, have caused psychological distress among border residents and raised serious humanitarian and diplomatic concerns amid efforts to sustain the Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire and uphold regional peace.