Cambodia's Fresh News Daily reported on 15/11 that Lim Sameng, a soldier previously captured by Thailand, had recovered and returned to the front line. The Cambodian newspaper hailed Lim Sameng as a "military hero", praising his unwavering resolve.

Thailand's 2nd Army Corps addressed the report on 17/11, stating that Lim Sameng was among Cambodian soldiers captured after clashes in the Kantharalak area of Sisaket province from 24-28/7. Thailand released two Cambodian prisoners of war, including Lim Sameng, after determining they had "severe health problems and mental symptoms".

Lim Sameng at a fortification in a photo released on 15/11. Photo: Fresh News Daily

"Lim Sameng suffered from chronic alcoholism and a mental disorder due to combat stress. Before his release, Lim Sameng signed a commitment not to return to the front line", Thailand's 2nd Army Corps stated.

The corps accused Cambodia of sending "an individual not in sound health" back to the front line, labeling it an "extremely inhumane act". Thailand's 2nd Army Corps declared that the incident involving Lim Sameng justified their decision not to release the remaining 18 Cambodian prisoners of war until the conflict fully ends.

Cambodian officials have not commented on the information.

Lim Sameng (white shirt, orange scarf) with a Cambodian prisoner of war repatriated by Thailand in July. Photo: Nation Thailand

Cambodia and Thailand signed a peace agreement in Kuala Lumpur on 26/10, witnessed by US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The agreement aimed to resolve the July conflict. President Trump had previously pressured both sides to sign, threatening punitive tariffs if Cambodia and Thailand did not cease fire.

Bangkok announced the suspension of the peace agreement on 11/11, accusing Phnom Penh of non-compliance and planting additional mines in the border area, which injured 4 Thai soldiers. Cambodia denied the claim, stating the mines were remnants from previous conflicts.

Cambodian and Thai forces exchanged gunfire at the border on 12/11, resulting in one death and three injuries. Both sides accused the other of firing first.