SURIN, Thailand — The Second Army Region today facilitated the return of two wounded Cambodian soldiers through the Chong Chom border checkpoint in Surin province, marking a rare humanitarian gesture amid lingering hostilities between the two nations. The soldiers, injured during last week’s intense clashes along the contested border, received medical treatment in Thailand before their repatriation, Thai PBS reported.

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According to military officials, one soldier suffered a fractured arm during the fighting, while the other was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. “Both were treated in line with humanitarian principles before being handed over to Cambodian authorities,” a Second Army Region spokesperson stated. The move comes as 18 other Cambodian troops remain in Thai custody, facing charges of illegal entry pending judicial proceedings.

The conflict’s aftermath continues to endanger local communities, with Phanom Dongrak district chief Ek-anan Sri-in warning farmers to avoid their fields due to the presence of unexploded artillery shells. Over 140 rockets and shells were reportedly fired into the district during last week’s clashes, with at least six live rounds discovered so far.

“Farmers should treat any fresh holes in the ground as potentially containing unexploded ordnance, which may be buried several meters deep,” Ek-anan cautioned. Defense volunteers have been stationed at village checkpoints near the border to monitor suspicious activity and prevent unauthorized access.

Thailand returns two Cambodian troops in advance of key border talks.

Cambodia demands return of more soldiers held by Thailand as border tensions simmer between the two countries.

Thailand has released two wounded Cambodian soldiers who were captured following intense clashes… pic.twitter.com/K3uAqiZWzf

— Rukiga F.M (@rukigafm) August 1, 2025

Further escalating concerns, local authorities reported multiple sightings of unidentified drones—suspected to be Cambodian surveillance aircraft—over Surin’s Prasat and Phanom Dongrak districts, as well as Buri Ram’s Ban Kruat district. The incursions have prompted heightened vigilance among Thai security forces, though no direct confrontations have been reported.

The repatriation of the injured soldiers offers a brief respite in an otherwise volatile situation, with both nations maintaining military readiness along the border. As clearance operations for unexploded shells continue, displaced residents remain hesitant to return to their homes, underscoring the lingering humanitarian impact of the clashes.

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The Thai military has yet to comment on whether further repatriations of detained Cambodian troops will follow. Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain active, though no formal ceasefire agreement has been announced.

-Thailand News (TN)