SA KAEO – The Thai Defence Ministry has strongly condemned Cambodia for launching BM-21 rockets into civilian areas in Sa Kaeo province, including a major border market, prompting an urgent evacuation. The attack on Sunday targeted the densely populated commercial hub of the Rong Kluea Border Market in Aranyaprathet district, known for goods imported from Cambodia and China.

Rong Kluea border market in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo

Defence Ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri stated the assault demonstrated the cruelty of Cambodian forces by deliberately aiming at civilian zones. The attack triggered panic among residents, traders, and shoppers, with at least ten loud explosions reported in and around the market area.

Following the rocket fire, the First Army Region ordered an immediate evacuation of the area. Residents in Ta Phraya, Khok Sung, Aranyaprathet, and Khlong Hat districts were advised not to return to their homes and to remain at official evacuation centers until the situation stabilizes. Free transport to shelters was arranged from pickup points such as Siammin Plaza in Aranyaprathet for those without private vehicles.

Urgent! 21/12/2025, Sa Kaeo Province, Thailand — Cambodian troops launched BM-21 rocket fire targeting civilian areas in Aranyaprathet District. Vendors at Rong Kluea Market rushed to evacuate in chaos, while falsely claiming to the world that #Cambodia has ceased fire. pic.twitter.com/XuLBWoRWw2

— TAU (ต้อ) (@NC31Aug) December 21, 2025

Local witnesses described the blasts as louder and closer than previous incidents since border clashes began. A trader reported hearing six consecutive explosions initially, followed by several more, causing vendors to quickly shut their stalls and flee.

Intense Clashes Persist at Key Thai-Cambodian Border Flashpoints

The First Army Region also issued a public warning that Burapha Task Force units were conducting military operations against Cambodian targets across the border. The ongoing clashes continue to threaten civilian safety along the volatile frontier.

-Thailand News (TN)