Bangkok – December 8th, 2025
Thailand’s Ministry of Defence has sharply condemned Cambodia after Cambodian troops allegedly opened fire on Thai soldiers conducting routine road maintenance along a disputed section of the border in Si Sa Ket province on Sunday afternoon.
The incident occurred at approximately 14:15 near Phu Pha Lek and Phlan Hin Paet Kon in the Kantharalak district. According to the Thai ministry, a Royal Thai Army engineering unit was improving a dirt track between Phu Pha Lek and the Phieng Fa checkpoint when Cambodian forces initiated gunfire.
Two Thai soldiers were wounded: one sustained a gunshot to the leg, while the second was hit in the chest plate of his body armor, resulting in bruising and difficulty breathing. Both were evacuated to Kantharalak Hospital and are now in stable condition.
Thai authorities stated that Cambodian troops then fired a recoilless rifle round into Thai territory. Thai soldiers returned fire in accordance with rules of engagement and the principle of proportionality. The exchange lasted until approximately 14:50, after which the situation de-escalated.
Hours later, Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, General Tea Seiha, claimed on social media that Thai forces had fired first and that Cambodian troops did not retaliate. Thailand’s Ministry of Defence categorically rejected the assertion, calling it “untrue and irresponsible,” and pointed to the injuries suffered by Thai personnel as clear evidence that Cambodian forces initiated the attack.
The ministry further accused Cambodia of deliberately escalating tensions, citing a pattern of recent provocations along the border and stating that the incident amounted to intentional targeting of Thai troops.
Thai military officials say forces along the frontier remain on high alert while diplomatic channels work to prevent further escalation.
Photos credit Royal Thai Army
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
