Cambodian Deminers Neutralise Thai M85 Cluster Munitions Left from Thai Invasion

Cambodian deminers have safely destroyed unexploded Thai M85 cluster munitions fired into Cambodian territory during past incursions, official sources said. The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) on Sept. 10 detonated the dangerous M85 submunitions in south Trapeang Sangker village, Romdors Sre commune, Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province. Officials noted the ordnance carried an effective blast radius and lethal hazard range of 200 to 300 metres. According to CMAC experts, the high-risk munitions were delivered by Thai artillery and armored vehicles deep into Cambodian territory – falling more than 20 kilometres from the border – during the Thai invasion near the Preah Vihear Temple, posing long-term catastrophic risks to civilian lives and land use. Mr. Eang Sothea, a CMAC unit commander, briefed reporters on the trajectories of various projectiles launched by Thai forces toward the historical site during the conflict. Out of 1,599 documented rounds, Thai troops deployed numerous cluster munitions in violation of international law. The operation was conducted during a field visit organised by the Club of Cambodian Journalists (CCJ), in cooperation with provincial authorities, CMAC, and the National Authority for Preah Vihear. The delegation guided 40 national and international news organisations to assess the on-site damage and report the findings to the global public. This incident highlights the persistent challenge of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Cambodia, a legacy of past conflicts that continues to pose risks to civilian safety and hinder economic development. While Cambodia deepens ties with China, addressing these remnants of war remains a critical domestic priority. Source: AKP Cambodia