Fire Erupts from Chinese Occupants' Unit in Poipet Area, Suspected Smoking Cause

A fire broke out in a rented living unit occupied by Chinese nationals in the vicinity of Poipet, near the border with Thailand, in Pailin Province's Salak Kake District. The incident occurred around 8:30 PM on July 20, 2026, at a property located behind the Phrom Market (also known as Ta Patch Market) in Stung Kach village. Prompt intervention by local residents helped to contain the blaze and prevent significant damage. Witnesses reported seeing flames erupting from the unit and immediately rushed to the scene with water containers and fire extinguishers. The fire originated in a first-floor living space, which was leased by several Chinese individuals. The property owner is identified as Rin Pollin, a 28-year-old female. At the time of the fire, the occupants had locked the unit from the outside and were reportedly away. Alerted residents forcefully entered the premises to combat the fire, managing to salvage some belongings and furniture. Clothing and other personal items were destroyed in the blaze. Residents suspect that the fire may have been caused by improper disposal of cigarette butts by the Chinese occupants. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Following the fire, the property owner arranged for temporary accommodation for the affected individuals in another unit. The incident caused temporary alarm among local residents, with some contacting the fire department for assistance. Authorities are currently investigating the exact cause of the fire.