rki.news
Phnom Penh/Bangkok, July 31 — Cambodia has urged Thailand to immediately release 20 of its soldiers who were detained after a ceasefire between the two countries had already come into effect.
At a press conference on Thursday, Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said that 21 Cambodian soldiers were taken into custody by Thai forces on the morning of July 29, despite the ceasefire agreement.
“Sadly, we have received one soldier’s body,” she stated. “We call on the Thai authorities to return the remaining 20 soldiers to Cambodia without delay.”
She added that Malaysia, in its role as the current ASEAN chair, is helping both sides find a peaceful resolution.
The Thai army confirmed the detentions, saying the Cambodian soldiers will be repatriated after going through necessary legal procedures. Thai officials also stated that the soldiers are being treated in line with international law.
Tensions flared on July 24 when clashes broke out between Cambodian and Thai troops along the border. A ceasefire agreement was reached on Monday, taking effect at midnight the same day.
Cambodia hopes for swift action from Thailand to avoid further escalation and to uphold regional peace.