Thai security forces fired rubber bullets and tear gas at Cambodian protesters during a violent confrontation along a disputed border area on Wednesday, injuring at least 28 people. The clash occurred near Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Thailand's Sa Kaeo province, which Cambodia calls Prey Chan village in Banteay Meanchey province.
Thai officials said around 200 Cambodian civilians attempted to dismantle barbed wire fences erected last month, throwing rocks, sticks and using slingshots. Thailand's army stated the villagers were protesting the deployment of barriers and concertina wire to enhance security. Cambodia accused Thai forces of crossing into its territory and using tear gas, rubber bullets and noise-making devices, injuring monks among others.
Cambodia condemned the incident as a violation of its sovereignty and unacceptable under international law. Prime Minister Hun Manet sent letters to world leaders seeking support from the international community and Asean to stop Thailand's 'unilateral actions'. Thailand insisted its forces acted inside its border, describing the removal of barricades as unlawful and saying its response was proportionate and adhered to human rights principles.
Thai army spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvaree characterised the protesters as a Cambodian mob encroaching on Thai territory, calling the violence a deliberate provocation and breach of the July ceasefire agreement. The military said five of its soldiers were injured. The violence followed a similar standoff the previous day when Cambodian villagers reportedly attempted to remove barriers.
The border has long been disputed, with tensions flaring over the Preah Vihear temple area. In July, the fiercest armed conflict in decades left at least 48 dead and forced over 260,000 to flee. That conflict ended after mediation by Malaysia and pressure from the US. A meeting of the General Border Committee scheduled for 10 October is expected to focus on this week's clashes.
