Defense Ministry Protests After Reported Gunfire Near Thai Border Checkpoint

PHNOM PENH, May 25, 2026 (KPT) — The Defense Ministry has lodged a formal protest with Thailand after reports that Thai troops fired 22 rounds near the O’Smach International Border Checkpoint in Oddar Meanchey province, according to a Cambodian military statement.

The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces said the gunfire was heard between 09:24 and 10:10 local time on Sunday in an area Cambodia claims as its territory but is currently occupied by Thai forces.

The statement described the shooting as “unprovoked” and said it occurred close to the north‑western border crossing.

In response, Cambodia’s Military Region 4 Liaison Team sent a letter of protest to the Thai Army Area 2 Liaison Team, urging Thai authorities to investigate, strengthen troop discipline and comply with the joint statement issued by the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee on 27 December 2025.

The incident follows recent accusations by Culture Minister Phoeurng Sackona that Thailand has violated international law by occupying ancient temple sites along the frontier, including Ta Krabey and Tamone complexes. She cited damage to the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry said more than 95 percent of civilians displaced by border tensions have returned home, though 30,934 remain uprooted, including nearly 16,000 women and over 10,000 children.

At the UN Security Council last week, Cambodia’s envoy Keo Chhea urged stronger protection of civilians, noting that attacks in 2025 displaced more than 649,000 people and caused extensive damage to homes and heritage sites.