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Soldiers

Royal Thai Army Returns Two Cambodian Soldiers, Leaves 16 Detained

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) transferred two Cambodian soldiers back to Cambodia on August 1, following a clash in the Sam Tae area of Si Sa Ket province. The two soldiers, Mom Rithy and Ang Oeun, were detained as prisoners of war (POWs) after attacking Thai officers on July 29. The RTA has been providing care to the detained Cambodian nationals in line with humanitarian principles and the Geneva Conventions, and has released photographs and video footage showing their humane treatment. The remaining 16 Cambodian soldiers remain in custody for further questioning.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Royal Thai Army returned two Cambodian soldiers, Mom Rithy and Ang Oeun, to Cambodia on August 1, after being detained as prisoners of war (POWs) following a clash in the Sam Tae area.
  • The two soldiers were accused of attacking Thai officers on July 29, and Thai troops retaliated by dismantling a Cambodian military base and apprehending 18 Cambodian personnel.
  • Two other Cambodian soldiers were found dead at the scene, and the RTA returned one of the deceased to the Cambodian military.
  • The RTA has been providing care to the detained Cambodian nationals in line with humanitarian principles and the Geneva Conventions.
  • The RTA released photographs and video footage showing the Cambodian soldiers dressed in clean clothes and dining to demonstrate its humane treatment.
  • The Cambodian military chief informed 13 foreign ambassadors that Thailand initially refused to repatriate the soldiers, despite official pleas.
  • The Thai Government spokesperson confirmed that the two Cambodian soldiers were returned to their home country at 10:30 am, and one of them, Mom Rithy, had sustained injuries to his hip and arm.
  • The other soldier, Ang Oeun, was reportedly suffering from mental health issues allegedly resulting from the clash, and was recommended for early return to prevent further deterioration of his condition.
  • The remaining 16 Cambodian soldiers remain detained by the 2nd Army Area, and their return has been postponed pending the outcome of ongoing interrogations.
  • Petch Petpailin, a Thai translator and writer, reported on the story for The Thaiger, a Thai news site.

Statistics:

  • 2 Cambodian soldiers returned to Cambodia on August 1
  • 18 Cambodian personnel apprehended by the Royal Thai Army
  • 2 Cambodian soldiers found dead at the scene
  • 16 Cambodian soldiers remain detained by the 2nd Army Area
  • 2 Cambodian soldiers returned to Cambodia have sustained injuries: Mom Rithy (hip and arm) and Ang Oeun (mental health issues)
  • The RTA has been providing care to the detained Cambodian nationals in line with humanitarian principles and the Geneva Conventions

Sources:

  • Amarin TV
  • Fresh News (Cambodian media outlet)
  • Maly Socheata (Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson)
  • Jirayu Huangsub (Thai Government spokesperson)
  • KhaoSod
  • Petch Petpailin (Thai translator and writer for The Thaiger)

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