Cambodia’s 20 Personnel Have Not Yet Been Repatriated by Thailand, But Remain in Normal Condition, Spokesperson

Cambodia’s 20 Personnel Have Not Yet Been Repatriated by Thailand, But Remain in Normal Condition, Spokesperson

Phnom Penh, August 1, 2025 — Speaking at a press conference held at the Office of the Council of Ministers on Friday morning, Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense of Cambodia, stated that as of this hour, the 20 Cambodian military personnel who were apprehended by Thai forces on July 29, 2025, at approximately 7:50 a.m.—after the ceasefire had officially taken effect—have not yet been returned. However, according to Thai authorities, the detained personnel remain in normal physical condition.

General Socheata emphasized that the Royal Government of Cambodia has been in close contact with the Thai side and continues to push for the swift and safe return of its forces. “Regarding the 20 Cambodian troops currently under Thailand’s custody since July 29, 2025, the Thai army has confirmed that they are safe and unharmed. Cambodia is actively engaging in negotiations to secure their release, and reiterates its firm call for their immediate and unconditional release in accordance with the international humanitarian law,” she said.

The spokesperson further underscored Cambodia’s unwavering stance on the protection and return of its forces, stating: “We have also formally requested Malaysia, in its capacity as Chair of ASEAN and as a key facilitator of the ceasefire agreed upon by the two countries, to mediate and we also urge Thailand to expedite the return of our military personnel. The Ministry of National Defence and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces affirm that we will never abandon any of our soldiers under any circumstances.”

General Sujata reaffirmed that Cambodia remains committed to resolving this issue through diplomatic and legal channels, while upholding its responsibilities to ensure the safety and dignity of its servicemen.