Cambodia Accuses Thai Monks and Troops of Building Structures Inside Its Territory

PHNOM PENH, March 18, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has accused Thai troops, supported by monks, of carrying out construction activities inside its territory, including roads, military structures and Buddhist statues, in violation of bilateral agreements.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Thai forces “with the help of Thai monks” had been clearing land and establishing permanent structures at multiple locations along the disputed frontier.

The allegations include the construction of a concrete bunker near Tamone Thom Temple in Oddar Meanchey province, as well as roadworks in Thmar Daun village.

Similar activities were reported in Preah Vihear province, including Mom Bei, An Seh and Ta Thav, where troops allegedly raised Thai flags and erected Buddhist statues.

Further construction has been noted around Hill 469, Hill 677 and Hill 500, as well as near border crossing points and temples such as Daun Ton and Ta Thay.

Phnom Penh maintains the sites lie within Cambodian territory under Franco-Siamese treaties of the early 20th century.

It said the activities breach a 2000 memorandum of understanding on border demarcation and a ceasefire agreed in December 2025.

Cambodia urged Thailand to halt all construction and unilateral actions, stressing disputes must be resolved peacefully and in line with international law.