5 Cambodians injured in gunfire amid suspension of peace pact with Thailand

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – At least five Cambodian civilians were injured Wednesday by gunfire along the border with Thailand just days after the Thai side suspended a peace pact.

“Thai soldiers opened fire on Cambodian civilians” in the border village of Prey Chan in the O’Chrov district of the Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodian news outlet the Khmer Times reported, citing a preliminary report from local authorities.

Another Cambodian news outlet, Fresh News, also reported on the incident, citing Um Reatrey, the province’s governor.

The Thai Army, however, denied "having shot at or injured Cambodian civilians today," saying instead the Cambodian side had opened fire, according to Thai outlet Khaosod English.

The shooting incident occurred at around 4 pm (0900GMT) along the countries’ border, which has seen rising tensions in recent months.

The Thai Army said: "Cambodia caused a commotion near Ban Nong Ya Kaeo (village), fired small arms for 10 minutes, provoking a response and hoping to create a situation for Thai forces," according to the outlet.

Ban Nong Ya Kaeo is situated in Thailand's eastern Sa Kaeo province, which borders Cambodia’s Banteay Meanchey province.

"The Thai side was prepared and did not retaliate in any way," said Col. Richa Sooksuwanon, deputy spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army.

The incident follows Bangkok’s Monday suspension of its peace pact with Phnom Penh after four Thai soldiers were wounded in a landmine explosion in the border province of Si Sa Ket.

The Southeast Asian nations signed the pact last month in Kuala Lumpur in the presence of US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

On July 28, Cambodia and Thailand had agreed to an unconditional ceasefire at a trilateral meeting hosted by Anwar following weeks of hostilities.