CMAC Reports New Evidence of Thailand’s Use of Cluster Bombs Banned Under International Law

The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has reported further evidence of Thailand’s use of cluster munitions—banned under international law—during its military aggression against Cambodia in late July.

In a social media post dated August 12, CMAC Director Heng Ratana cited findings from CMAC’s Survey, Marking, and Clearance of Cluster Munitions report, stating that Thailand deployed cluster munitions during the five-day conflict “fired through 155mm artillery.” Each 155mm shell reportedly contained 56 M-46 cluster sub-munitions.

Ratana warned of the severe risks posed by unexploded sub-munitions. “M-46 munitions can affect large areas and pose immense threats by remaining suspended in trees and houses, lying on the ground, or submerged in water,” he said.

He added that CMAC expert teams have already located and begun surveying, marking, and clearing cluster munitions in affected areas to ensure the safety of local populations.

The Convention on Cluster Munitions, which prohibits the use, transfer, and stockpiling of such weapons, entered into force in 2010. To date, 123 countries have joined the treaty.

On August 10, the Military Attaché Corps Phnom Penh (MACPP)—comprising 14 representatives from nine countries including Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, China, France, Japan, South Korea, Laos, and Vietnam—visited the affected site and verified the presence of an MK-84 bomb dropped during Thai airstrikes in late July. Manufactured in 1996, the bomb weighs approximately 1,000 kg, with a length of 3.5 meters and a diameter of 0.5 meters.

In a separate post on August 10, Ratana reported that Thailand had dropped 10 bombs on the same site, of which four detonated and six remained unexploded—including the MK-84. CMAC experts have already identified the locations for future clearance operations.

According to CMAC’s operational records, a total of 1,549 bombs were dropped on the Oddar Meanchey front during the Thai airstrikes. “CMAC is deploying technical teams to survey, mark, and clear the areas affected by bombing and shelling to ensure the safety of residents returning to their homes,” Ratana said.

He also urged residents in Samraong and Banteay Ampil districts of Oddar Meanchey province, and Choam Khsant district of Preah Vihear province, to remain vigilant. “If you encounter or suspect the presence of cluster munitions or unexploded ordnance (UXOs), please contact CMAC experts, local authorities, or police for assistance,” he added.