Unilateral Thai Map Reveals Thai’s Occupation into Cambodian Territory in Prey Chan Village

According to a satellite image map with boundary line unilaterally drawn and released by the Thai army shows that beside the disputed area, some parts of the Cambodian territory in Prey Chan Village, O Bei Chorn Commune, O Chrov District are being partly occupied and used by Thai citizens.

However, Cambodian authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to peacefully resolving border issues in Banteay Meanchey province with Thailand, reiterating their adherence to resolving the matter through Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meetings.

In contrast, the Thai army and Sa Kaeo Provincial Administration have used unilateral the satellite image map to claim territory in the disputed area. These actions included the installation of barbed wire fences and threats of mass forced eviction against Cambodian villagers in Prey Chan and Chuok Chey villages, in violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty.

In the clarification made by the Ministry of National Defense of Cambodia on case of Prey Chan, Lt Gen Khun explained that even if one were to rely on the unofficial unilateral lines drawn on the Thai satellite image map between border markers 42–43, the reality on the ground proves otherwise: “Actual on-site investigation clearly shows that thereare also actual occupations and use of Cambodian territory by Thai citizens.”

He also noted that Thai authorities were applying double standards.

“Furthermore, I must stress that in the past the Thai military and Thai provincial authorities have selectively used unilateral maps to make claims, showing only areas where they allege Cambodians encroached into Thai territory, while omitting areas where Thai citizens and soldiers have themselves encroached into Cambodian territory,” he added.