Renewed tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border have prompted a formal request for an autonomous investigation following a November 12th shooting incident that left one civilian dead and three injured [[1]]. The incident, occurring in a historically disputed border region, has led to the evacuation of nearly 300 families from Preah Chan village and raises concerns about escalating conflict between the two nations [[2]]. Cambodia is now seeking international support for a thorough inquiry and the release of 18 soldiers currently detained in Thailand.
Cambodia is calling for an independent investigation into a November 12th incident along the Thai-Cambodian border, alleging Thai soldiers opened fire on civilians. The call for scrutiny comes amid ongoing tensions over a disputed border area and raises questions about regional security.
During a special meeting of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) in Malacca, Malaysia, from November 10th to 14th, Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) member Sryeng Chenda urged regional and international bodies to conduct a fair and impartial inquiry.
According to a CHRC press release issued November 16th, Chenda briefed fellow delegates on the November 12th incident, which resulted in one death and three serious injuries. The shooting occurred in Preah Chan village, Banteay Meanchey province, prompting nearly 300 families to evacuate the area overnight.
“An independent investigation will help ensure justice and compensation for the victims,” Chenda stated.
Chenda also called for the unconditional release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand, citing principles of human rights and international humanitarian law.
Reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful resolution of the dispute, Chenda pointed to international law, the Kuala Lumpur Declaration of Peace, and other agreements. He also emphasized Cambodia’s adherence to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines, stating the country has never and will not lay landmines.
The Cambodian Ministry of Interior announced November 15th that local authorities have investigated the November 12th incident and gathered relevant evidence, with observers from ASEAN and foreign experts present.
A statement from the Ministry of Interior indicated that after a thorough investigation, Cambodia will consider submitting a petition to relevant international organizations to seek accountability and justice for the Cambodian civilians affected by the shooting. The move underscores Cambodia’s determination to address the incident through international legal channels.
