Cambodia rejects reports of new landmine use along the border

PHNOM PENH, Feb 27, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has rejected reports alleging the recent laying of anti-personnel mines along its border with Thailand.

In a statement issued Thursday, the CMAA said Cambodia remained fully committed to its obligations under the 1997 Mine Ban Treaty and had not deployed any new mines.

“Any reporting regarding the discovery of anti-personnel mines along the border deserves careful, objective and responsible handling,” the authority said, adding that its position had been “consistent, transparent and unequivocal.”

The CMAA noted that border areas remain contaminated by mines and unexploded ordnance from past conflicts, describing the continued discovery of legacy mines as an “unfortunate reality” underscoring the need for sustained clearance and cooperation.

It criticised what it called unilateral actions by Thai officials in preserving evidence and presenting conclusions, saying such steps could not be considered definitive without joint technical verification.

The authority called for a mutually agreed mechanism to assess and verify concerns, stressing that mine action should remain humanitarian in focus and not be politicised.

Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and joint efforts to ensure a safe and stable border.