Phnom Penh: The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) has categorically rejected what it describes as false and irresponsible claims made by the Thai Army spokesperson concerning a recent incident at Ta Moan Thom Temple, located in Ta Moan Sen Chey village, Kok Mon commune, Banteay Ampil district, Oddar Meanchey province. In a statement issued this morning, the RCAF reiterated its call for the Thai side to fully and strictly adhere to existing agreements and refrain from spreading misinformation that undermines mutual trust and threatens regional stability.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the RCAF provided a four-point clarification on the incident. First, it denied the Thai Army spokesperson's claim that Cambodian forces had been informed in advance about the visit of 150 Thai cyclists to Ta Moan Thom Temple. The Cambodian army received no such notification, neither verbally nor through official communication. The RCAF emphasized that if the Thai army has nothing to hide and no ill intentions, it should operate transparently and in accordance with the bilateral agreement, which clearly defines the procedures and timing for accessing the temple.
Second, upon observing the unauthorized visit by the Thai cyclists, the Cambodian army responded appropriately, politely, and professionally. Cambodian troops reminded their Thai counterparts that this action constituted a breach of the agreement and urged them to adhere strictly to its terms. Despite the violation, the Cambodian side allowed the group to take photos and leave peacefully, demonstrating Cambodia's commitment to avoiding unnecessary tension.
Third, the Thai Army spokesperson's suggestion that the issue may stem from a misunderstanding between the Cambodian army and the Royal Government is deemed irresponsible by the RCAF. Such a statement strays from the professional duty of a spokesperson, whose role is to deliver truthful, evidence-based information. The RCAF claims these accusations appear to be an attempt to deflect responsibility for the Thai army's own breach of the agreement and to mislead the Thai public. The Royal Government, the armed forces, and the people of Cambodia remain united in their determination to defend the nation's territorial integrity.
Fourth, the RCAF reaffirms that, based on the 1:200,000 scale map and in line with the spirit of the 1904 Franco-Siamese Convention and the 1907 Franco-Siamese Treaty, Ta Moan Thom Temple lies within the sovereign territory of Cambodia and is therefore inviolable. The RCAF calls on the Thai side to fully respect the existing agreement in good faith and to refrain from any actions that distort the facts or erode mutual trust and confidence.
The incident occurred on June 22 at approximately 7:30 a.m., when three Thai soldiers led a group of about 150 Thai cyclists into the Ta Moan Thom temple complex without prior notice to Cambodian authorities. This action constitutes a violation of the bilateral agreement, which stipulates that the temple complex may only be accessed between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Any changes to these arrangements require prior joint consultation and approval to ensure smooth coordination and prevent misunderstandings.