Cambodia Files Urgent Complaint to UN over Thai ‘Psychological Intimidation’ at Border Villages

Cambodia Files Urgent Complaint to UN over Thai ‘Psychological Intimidation’ at Border Villages

The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) has submitted an urgent appeal to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemning what it describes as the use of “disturbing sounds” by the Royal Thai Armed Forces as a form of psychological intimidation and harassment against Cambodian civilians living along the border.

In a letter addressed to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, the CHRC said it had received “credible reports from local authorities and affected civilians residing in Prey Chan and Chouk Chey Villages, O Bei Chorn Commune, O Chrov District, Banteay Meanchey Province, indicating that units of the Royal Thai Armed Forces broadcast haunting sounds resembling wailing ghosts through large loudspeakers from 10:44 PM until 12:04 AM; followed by continuous aircraft engine noises played from 3:22 AM to 3:53 AM, deliberately directed toward Cambodian villagers.”

According to the CHRC, these actions have severely disrupted the lives of border residents, causing anxiety, sleep disturbance, and distress, particularly among vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly.

“These actions have no place in any civilized society and stand in direct contradiction to the principles of the United Nations Charter, which upholds peace, human rights, and mutual respect for sovereignty among nations,” the CHRC stated.

The committee urged the UN Human Rights Office to conduct an immediate investigation into the incidents, ensure accountability for human rights violations, and call for the cessation of all forms of psychological intimidation against Cambodian civilians.

It also invited the Office of the High Commissioner to send an on-site observation mission to the Cambodia–Thailand border, pledging full cooperation and logistical support.

The CHRC reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to peace and human dignity but warned that “persistent acts of aggression and harassment against civilians cannot and will not be tolerated.”

-Khmer Times-