Cambodian Experts Say Thai Military Looting Violates Sovereignty, International Law

PHNOM PENH, Jan. 6, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodian experts and officials have accused Thai military forces of looting and destroying civilian property in border villages, calling the actions violations of Cambodia’s sovereignty and international law.

The allegations follow reports that Thai armed forces entered Cambodian villages between Dec. 7 and Dec. 27, destroying homes and infrastructure and confiscating personal belongings.

Political science expert Kin Phea said video footage showed Thai soldiers ransacking civilian homes and military facilities while illegally stationed on seized territory.

He said personal belongings, equipment and essential supplies were taken by force, adding that the footage also depicted the destruction of a family’s home and desecration of national symbols, including a photograph of Cambodia’s King.

Youk Chhang, director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia, said the occupation of border areas, including sacred Khmer cultural sites and temples, breached international law and ceasefire agreements brokered by the United States and ASEAN.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said Thai forces “relentlessly destroyed civilian houses and infrastructure” even after a ceasefire took effect, fencing off land and preventing displaced families from returning.

On Jan. 5, Cambodia’s Human Rights Committee submitted an urgent appeal to UN human rights chief Volker Türk and UN Special Rapporteur on Housing Balakrishnan Rajagopal, urging investigations, reparations and an immediate halt to demolitions.