Rights group says Thai forces razed Cambodian homes after ceasefire

PHNOM PENH, Jan 21, 2026 (KPT) — A Cambodian rights group said Tuesday that satellite imagery shows Thai military forces destroyed civilian homes and infrastructure in border areas after a ceasefire with Cambodia last month.

In its report, LICADHO (Cambodian League for the Promotion and Defense of Human Rights) cited European Space Agency Sentinel 2 images, along with photos and videos, indicating that homes and structures were cleared in Chok Chey and Boeung Trarkuon villages in Banteay Meanchey province following the December 27 ceasefire.

The group said the destruction took place in areas under Thai control, including land claimed by both countries and territory recognised by both sides as Cambodian or Thai.

It warned the clearance appeared to serve no legitimate military purpose and could breach international law, citing the Geneva Convention’s ban on destroying civilian property by an occupying power unless strictly necessary.

LICADHO said Chok Chey had been inhabited for decades, with government data recording more than 2,500 residents in 2019. Satellite images showed homes and a primary school behind Thai emplacements, with significant clearing after the ceasefire.

In Boeung Trarkuon, journalists’ footage showed Thai forces placing barbed wire and shipping containers deep inside Cambodian territory, leaving hundreds of homes and public facilities under Thai control.

The group also raised concerns about Prey Chan village, where residents reportedly cannot access their homes, and urged Thai authorities to halt demolitions while calling on Cambodia to ensure displaced families have adequate housing.