Cambodia Protests Thai ‘Unlawful’ Actions Along Disputed Border

PHNOM PENH, April 4, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has lodged a formal protest against Thailand over what it described as unlawful activities by Thai forces in several disputed border areas, warning the moves risk undermining ongoing efforts to ease tensions.

In a statement issued late Friday, the Foreign Ministry said the incidents occurred between March 31 and April 2 in Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey provinces, including near the O Smach international crossing.

According to the ministry, Thai Burapha military forces escorted civilians to conduct land ownership verification between Boundary Pillars 45 and 47 in Chouk Chey village, a move Cambodia said was unilateral and prejudged the outcome of demarcation work under the Joint Boundary Commission.

On April 2, around 70 Thai soldiers backed by two armoured vehicles were deployed at the O Smach border gate in Samraong city, where Cambodian authorities reported additional barbed wire was installed.

Thai forces were also accused of using heavy machinery to clear land near Boundary Pillar No. 2 in Anlong Veng district.

Phnom Penh said the actions could not be considered defensive and were inconsistent with commitments made during the 3rd Special General Border Committee meeting on December 27, 2025, which sought to reduce frontier tensions.

The ministry stressed that such activities risk undermining agreed de-escalation measures and bilateral accords.

Despite the protest, Cambodia reiterated its commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and in line with international law, insisting that borders must not be altered by force.