Cambodian troops block Thai surveyors near disputed border post

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.30, 2025) — Cambodian forces on Monday repelled a group of Thai military personnel and surveyors who entered a disputed area near Border Post No. 46 in Chouk Chey village, Ou Chrov district, escalating tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand frontier.

Local authorities said the Thai unit attempted to conduct measurements west of the Ampov plantation but was forced to withdraw after Cambodian troops blocked their advance.

A second Thai group was reportedly preparing similar activity near Border Post No. 47, prompting Cambodian forces and local farmers to remain on high alert.
Ou Chrov District Governor Keo Tararasmei said the situation de-escalated by 9:30 a.m. following the Thai withdrawal, with no injuries or further confrontation reported.

Officials said the incursion violated a standing ceasefire and bilateral agreements that prohibit expansion or escalation in contested border zones.

The incident comes amid renewed friction between the two neighbors. On Sept. 28, Thai authorities erected a banner claiming Thai legal jurisdiction over Chokchey and Prey Chan villages in Cambodia’s Ou Chrov district. Banteay Meanchey Governor Um Reatrey lodged a formal protest, calling the move a violation of Cambodian citizens’ rights and sovereignty.

In a letter to officials in Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province, Reatrey said the banner undermines the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding on land border demarcation and disregards the long-standing presence of Cambodian families in the area.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday called for calm and international oversight following Cambodia’s accusation that Thai forces fired mortars and machine guns at a Cambodian base in Preah Vihear province on Sept. 27. The ministry said such actions risk destabilizing border communities and undermining diplomatic efforts to resolve territorial disputes peacefully.

Cambodian authorities have increased monitoring along the border and urged restraint from both sides as tensions continue to simmer.