Over 1,300 houses affected as Thai military occupies 292 hectares in Boeung Trakuon

The Thai military continues to place shipping containers deep inside Cambodia, maintaining its illegal occupation despite the ceasefire. AKP

#National

Despite the ceasefire, local authorities say Thai troops have continued to erect razor wire and position shipping containers inside Cambodian territory, approximately one kilometre from the Boeung Trakuon border crossing.

The affected area includes four villages in Kork Romiet commune—Phlov Bambek, Samakki, Banteay Meanrith and Trapaing Samraong—which officials say have been encroached upon and illegally occupied by Thai forces.

According to the Thma Puok District Administration, Samakki village alone saw 72 hectares affected, including 60 hectares of residential land and 10 hectares of agricultural land. Banteay Meanrith village lost 52 hectares, while Trapaing Samraong village saw over 60 hectares impacted. Phlov Bambek village was affected over a much larger area, totalling 108 hectares.

Overall, Cambodian authorities say 292 hectares of land in the Boeung Trakuon area remain under Thai military occupation, including 205 hectares of residential land and 70 hectares of agricultural land.

The affected zone includes 1,365 houses, representing 1,479 families and more than 6,000 residents.

Many of those residents remain displaced due to damaged homes and continuing security concerns.

The Cambodian government has formally demanded the withdrawal of Thai forces from Cambodian territory following the ceasefire, according to official statements.

Oum Reatrey, Governor of Banteay Meanchey province, said on January 3 that Cambodia has adhered to the ceasefire since 27 December. However, he said the Thai side has failed to respect the agreement.

“They are not firing, but they continue to install barbed wire. Until today, they are still laying barbed wire, surrounding people’s homes and even the monastery,” he said.

-The Phnom Penh Post-