Cambodia Urges Thailand to Avoid Patrolling in Old Minefield Areas Following Border Explosion

Cambodia Urges Thailand to Avoid Patrolling in Old Minefield Areas Following Border Explosion

The Ministry of National Defence has urged Thailand to avoid patrolling in old minefield areas—particularly those internationally recognised as mine-contaminated zones from past conflicts—to prevent the potential danger of triggering old landmines and causing unnecessary tensions along the border.

In a press release issued today, Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokeswoman for the Ministry of National Defence, expressed regret over the recent mine explosion on November 10, which injured Thai soldiers while they were patrolling in a minefield left over from past conflicts.

The Ministry noted that several Thai media outlets have since reported claims made by Thai leaders and military officials accusing Cambodia of laying new landmines, which allegedly caused the incident in Preah Vihear province. The Cambodian Defence Ministry “firmly rejects accusations made by the Thai side against Cambodia.”

“The Ministry of National Defence strongly affirms that since Cambodia became a State Party to the Ottawa Convention, it has remained fully and consistently in compliance with the principles and obligations of international law,” the statement said. “Cambodia reaffirms that it has not used or placed any new landmines that threaten the security and safety of civilians.”

The Ministry stressed that despite ongoing demining efforts over the past several decades, unexploded ordnance left from previous conflicts still pose threats to public safety in various areas, particularly along border regions with neighbouring countries, including Thailand.

“In this context, the Ministry of National Defence urges Thailand to avoid patrolling in old minefield areas, particularly in areas internationally recognized as mine-contaminated zones resulting from past conflicts, to prevent the potential danger of exploding old landmines that could cause unnecessary tensions,” the statement continued.

According to Cambodia’s 4th Military Region, both Cambodian and Thai military forces along the border have communicated following the incident, and the situation remains calm, with no further tensions reported.

“The Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia remains committed to working closely with Thailand to promote peace and stability between the two countries, especially ensuring the security and safety of civilians, in accordance with the Joint Declaration between Cambodia and Thailand signed on October 26, 2025,” the statement added.

-Khmer Times-