Pursat Provincial Governor Khoy Rida (pointing) shows Thai razor wire barricades in the Thma Da area to the Asean Observation Team (AOT). - Photo: Supplied
PHNOM PENH: Pursat provincial governor Khoy Rida has asserted that the situation in the Thmor Da area is not a routine border incident but a clear act of invasion and occupation, with Thai troops holding four locations inside Cambodian territory.
Speaking to reporters on Friday (Jan 16), Rida explained that the occupied areas include Chey Chumneh Bridge, also known as the water-gate bridge where officials were speaking, the Phluk Damrei area, and Chey Chumneh checkpoint or Checkpoint 56, which is linked to a special economic zone.
“These are the points that Thai forces have entered and occupied,” he said, stressing that the situation goes beyond a temporary standoff and constitutes a territorial violation.
According to the governor, the incursion has directly affected more than 80 families.
Of them, 39 families have lost their homes entirely, while others remain unable to return due to security concerns, as their residences are surrounded by or located near razor-wire fences erected by Thai troops.
Rida added that on January 15 and 16, an AOT delegation, coordinated by the provincial administration, conducted on-the-ground inspections in Thmor Da.
Damage reported from the area includes frontline administrative buildings, hospitals, health centres, commercial structures and other infrastructure, particularly the water-gate bridge, which is considered a critical public facility.
“We explained the facts to the AOT team, especially the claims that Cambodia was threatening or invading Thailand. We clarified clearly that Cambodia is not the aggressor. It is Thailand that has invaded and threatened us, yet they accuse us of threatening them,” said Rida.
He said the AOT delegation had gained a full understanding of the situation, adding that the actions by Thai forces were not a temporary operation or a withdrawal-based manoeuvre, but a continued occupation.
Rida noted that both local residents and the AOT team had witnessed Thai troops encircling residential areas, military sites and commercial buildings, which he said clearly demonstrates an act of territorial encroachment into Cambodia.
The governor voiced support for the Cambodian government’s diplomatic approach through international legal mechanisms, aimed at preventing further casualties and losses among civilians and troops on both sides.
He also said that about 900 families in Thmor Da were relocated to safer areas, with most having since returned home.
Regarding the damage, Rida said the government is assessing the impact, with multiple teams conducting field studies.
At the sub-national level, authorities are working to facilitate residents’ return where possible and to carry out minor repairs to damaged property.
Rida expressed appreciation to the AOT team for conducting an investigation to help deter further incursions and shelling against Cambodian civilians.
He also highlighted the role of international partners in contributing to de-escalation efforts, singling out Asean chair Malaysia’s Prime Minister for his active engagement, as well as US President Donald Trump.
He concluded by reiterating the importance of international cooperation in helping restore peace and stability to the affected areas. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
