The Ministry of National Defence has warned that gunfire was heard in the O’Smach area this morning, April 29, during an inspection visit by the Military Attaché Corps to Phnom Penh (MACPP), noting that the display appeared to be contrary to the spirit of the current ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand.
Defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata explained that the shots, believed to have come from M-16 rifles and M-79 grenade launchers, occurred as the attachés were observing the O’Smach International Border Checkpoint in Oddar Meanchey Province.
She noted that the secretariat of the Regional Border Committee (RBC) of Cambodia’s Military Region 4 had notified their counterparts in Thailand’s 2nd Army Area of the visit.
“Regrettably, during the on-site inspection, there were five instances of gunfire initiated by Thai military forces between 10.35am and 11.09. A total of nine rounds were fired,” she said.
She explained that MACPP activities reflect a high level of commitment to security and peace — not only between the respective nations but for the region and the world at large.
“Cambodian forces will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain vigilant in fulfilling their role of protecting Cambodia’s territorial integrity and people. This incident was contrary to the spirit of the ceasefire and the agreements established by both sides to reduce tensions and promote peace, security and tranquillity along the border,” she noted.
Socheata added that Cambodia, as a law-abiding and responsible state, adheres to the peaceful resolution of disputes. Achieving lasting peace between the two countries — which contributes to the peace, stability and unity of ASEAN — requires genuine commitment and full respect for international law, the ASEAN Charter and all existing treaties and agreements that bind them.
“The defence ministry reaffirms our firm, sincere and unwavering commitment to fully and faithfully respect and implement the Joint Statement of the Third Special Meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) on December 27, 2025, the Joint Declaration on the Peace Agreement between Cambodia and Thailand on October 26, 2025, and all other relevant agreements,” she said.
“We aim to find a peaceful, just and lasting solution in accordance with international law, as well as existing treaties and agreements between the two countries,” she added.