AKP Phnom Penh, January 05, 2026 --

Cambodia’s national mine authority issued an urgent safety appeal on Monday, warning thousands of displaced citizens against the dangers of unexploded ordnance (UXO) as they prepare to return to homes previously caught in border hostilities.

H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), delivered the warning during a visit to temporary shelters at the Prasat Neak Kou and Silachar Banteay Srei pagodas in Siem Reap province. 

The appeal follows a fragile ceasefire aimed at ending recent military tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border.

"Do not enter areas suspected of harbouring war remnants," H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch told a gathering of displaced families. "Before returning home, consult with local authorities to ensure your safety. If you encounter mines, cluster munitions, or any suspicious objects, do not touch them. Report them immediately to village chiefs or demining operators."

The Senior Minister credited Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet’s diplomatic efforts for securing the cessation of hostilities. He emphasised that the Royal Government’s priority is a peaceful resolution to the conflict to prevent further casualties and allow for regional development.

As part of the Royal Government’s safety strategy, the CMAA has directed all demining partners to prioritise mine-risk education for returning populations. Officials expressed particular concern regarding explosives and remnants allegedly left behind during the recent military friction.

The safety campaign was joined by Fan Manjiang, Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia. China, which played a mediating role in the ceasefire negotiations, reaffirmed its commitment to Cambodia's demining efforts.

"Supporting humanitarian mine action is a core pillar of China's cooperation with Cambodia," Mr. Fan said, noting that Beijing remains committed to ensuring Cambodian civilians can live free from the threat of explosive remnants of war.

The border region remains high-risk, and authorities have intensified patrols to mark hazardous zones as the repatriation process begins.

By K. Rithy Reak