Thailand repatriates two Cambodian soldiers

The Thai military repatriated two Cambodian soldiers through a border crossing, but has not yet released 15 other captured personnel.

Thailand's Second Army Area, in coordination with security and immigration units in Surin province, repatriated two Cambodian soldiers this morning. They were among a group of 18 captured since the border conflict between the two countries erupted.

The two soldiers, Second Lieutenant Ang Oeung, 37, and Sergeant Mom Vuthy, 53, were released through the O'Smach border crossing in Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia, at 11 a.m.

Cambodian media reported both appeared to be in poor health upon their return. One was in a wheelchair, the other barefoot and seemingly distressed.

The Thai military said Sergeant Mom Vuthy was found with a broken arm and injured right hip, while Second Lieutenant Ang Oeung suffered mental distress due to the fighting. Both received basic medical treatment, with Ang Oeung undergoing a specialist examination and being advised to return home for family care.

Soldier Mom Vuthy is repatriated at the O'Smach international border crossing, 1/8. Photo: Khmer Times

Soldier Mom Vuthy is repatriated at the O'Smach international border crossing, 1/8. Photo: Khmer Times

The Thai military stated this repatriation was carried out in accordance with the Geneva Convention, and the two soldiers were treated humanely. According to the Bangkok Post, both soldiers pledged not to engage in any actions against Thailand in the future.

The Thai military announced on 29/7 the capture of 18 Cambodian soldiers following a clash in the Samtae area of Sisaket province, a day after the two countries reached a ceasefire agreement. The Thai military also found two other Cambodian soldiers dead in the area.

The Cambodian military accused Thailand of capturing the soldiers while they were "approaching to greet in a spirit of reconciliation," while Bangkok said they surrendered.

Thailand's Second Army Area confirmed the repatriation process for the remaining 16 Cambodian soldiers will take time due to ongoing verification procedures. Cambodian authorities continue to urge Thailand to expedite the repatriation process in accordance with international humanitarian principles.

Second Lieutenant Ang Oeung is repatriated at the O'Smach international border crossing, 1/8. Photo: Khmer Times

Second Lieutenant Ang Oeung is repatriated at the O'Smach international border crossing, 1/8. Photo: Khmer Times

Fighting between Cambodia and Thailand broke out near the Ta Moan Thom temple on the morning of 24/7, then spread to other areas along the border. This was the most serious clash between the two neighbors in over 10 years, resulting in a total of 38 deaths, including 25 in Thailand and 13 in Cambodia.

Cambodia and Thailand reached a ceasefire agreement on 28/7, following talks in Malaysia mediated by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Leaders of the Thai and Cambodian military regions agreed not to deploy or move additional forces along the border to enforce the ceasefire.

However, Thailand has repeatedly accused Cambodia of violating the agreement and attacking its military positions. Phnom Penh denied the information, affirming its adherence to the ceasefire and claiming Bangkok was "fabricating and causing misunderstandings."