Cambodian officials condemn alleged rape of workers near Thai border

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov.17, 2025) — Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Sokha on Monday condemned the alleged rape of a Cambodian woman by Thai soldiers near the border, calling the act “brutal” and pledging to raise the case with the international community.

Authorities said the woman was allegedly assaulted by seven Thai soldiers while returning home from Thailand. Thirteen workers, including six women and a child, were reportedly beaten and robbed of mobile phones and cash during the incident, which occurred Nov. 15 in Kamrieng district, Battambang province.

“Cambodia National Police, together with NGOs, are collecting relevant documents and evidence,” Sokha said. “All officials are working diligently to investigate this case and bring it to the attention of the international community.”

He said the victim’s health has improved since returning to Cambodia and that officials are monitoring her physical and mental recovery.

Sokha urged Cambodian workers returning from Thailand to travel in groups and notify their families of their plans, stressing that border officials are responsible for ensuring their safety. “

At this time, Cambodia is a safe place for our workers. No place is safer than our own nation,” he said.