Evacuation Ordered as Thai Military Escalates Attacks on Battambang
Battambang, Cambodia – An escalating conflict between Thai military forces and Cambodian authorities has led to the evacuation of residents from the Sompov Lun area in Battambang province today. The local governor, Sok Lu, issued a directive for civilians to seek refuge in nearby districts as Thai military forces intensified their assault, deploying tanks and firing heavy mortars into civilian areas.
Thailand fired shells at Sompov Lun in Battambang province
According to Governor Sok Lu’s Facebook post, he urged residents in the affected Sompov Lun region to move to Bavel and Thmar Kol districts for their safety. The order follows significant military activity, with Thai forces launching multiple attacks within Cambodian borders.
The Ministry of National Defense of Cambodia has confirmed reports of Thai military forces expanding their operations within the 5th Military Region, particularly targeting civilian areas in the Phnum Proek district, Sompov Loun district, and Chakrey Commune.
At approximately 11:15 am this morning, Thai military forces fired two artillery shells into the territory of Chakrey Commune in Battambang province. The attack was followed by the deployment of tanks and infantry units in nearby Ta Sda commune, part of Sompov Loun district. Just minutes later, between 11:15 am and 11:56 am, Thai forces launched five mortar shells, ranging from 100mm to 105mm, targeting civilian structures and infrastructure in the area.
This escalation marks a significant uptick in military tensions, with Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense acknowledging the extent of the threat. The ministry stated that the Thai assault had gone beyond military targets and included residential areas, further endangering innocent civilians.
In addition to the mortar attacks, Cambodian authorities reported that a Thai military drone violated Cambodian airspace over the Samlot district yesterday evening. The drone’s presence raised concerns over potential surveillance and reconnaissance operations within Cambodian territory.
Residents near Khao Din market, located across the border in Thailand, also reported hearing two blasts late last night. Around 9:05 pm, Thai military forces fired a 60mm mortar near the old communications headquarters at the Kilo 13 international checkpoint, which lies in Santephap commune, Sampov Lun district.
While the conflict has already caused significant disruption, the Cambodian military forces have remained resilient, actively engaging with the advancing Thai forces. According to the Ministry of National Defense, Cambodian troops have “stood firm in their role of protecting Cambodia’s territorial integrity,” despite the ongoing bombardment.
The ongoing conflict has raised alarm both regionally and internationally, with experts warning that such escalations could lead to further instability along the Thai-Cambodian border. Both governments have yet to issue official statements on the broader implications of the clash, though diplomatic channels are expected to open in the coming days to address the situation.
As the situation continues to unfold, authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders where applicable. The Cambodian military remains on high alert, prepared to defend national sovereignty while ensuring the safety of civilian populations in the affected regions.
Conclusion:
The Thai military’s recent escalation in Battambang has intensified fears of further military engagement between Thailand and Cambodia. With ongoing attacks on civilian areas and the deployment of heavy artillery, the situation remains highly volatile. The Cambodian government continues to stress its commitment to protecting its territorial integrity, while also calling for international attention to address the growing conflict.
