Thailand readies for the return of wounded Cambodian soldiers
Thailand Repatriates Injured Cambodian Soldiers with Humanitarian Care
The Thai government repatriated two injured Cambodian soldiers at the Chong Chom Border Crossing in Surin Province on July 31, 2025. The repatriation was a humanitarian act, strictly adhering to the principles of the Geneva Conventions and international law.
Sergeant Mom Rithi and Acting Second Lieutenant Ang Aung were left behind after border clashes and received initial medical and psychological care while in Thai custody. Both soldiers made solemn oaths not to engage in combat against Thailand again before their return, a condition consistent with humanitarian repatriation under combatant treatment standards.
The repatriation was coordinated by the Thai-Cambodian Border Coordination Unit in Sector 2 Chong Chom, with involvement from Thai security and immigration officials in Surin Province. Sergeant Mom Rithi had a broken arm and a large infected wound, found seven days post-injury in a ditch, and received medical treatment immediately upon recovery. Acting Second Lieutenant Ang Aung showed psychological distress, possibly combat stress, and was evaluated by experts who concluded he was at risk without family support. He received therapy before being repatriated.
The process complied fully with the Geneva Conventions, the United Nations Charter, Thailand's laws against torture and enforced disappearance, and relevant immigration regulations. Both soldiers were detained as prisoners of war and treated according to military procedures that conform to international humanitarian standards.
The repatriation reflects Thailand's commitment to upholding international humanitarian law, particularly the Geneva Conventions, by ensuring humane treatment of prisoners of war, providing necessary medical and psychological care, and facilitating their return home under conditions that protect their rights and security. It demonstrates adherence to international standards in handling combat-related detainees, which was further underscored by Thailand's transparent coordination with international agencies such as the UN and the Red Cross for ongoing oversight of detainees.
The Thai government denies the accusation of abducting the Cambodian soldiers, stating it was not an abduction. The government also affirms its rightful actions in defending its sovereignty and responding to the breach of its territory. Eighteen other Cambodian soldiers are still under investigation.
Before their return, the two injured soldiers will be sent for further medical treatment. The Cambodian soldiers in question crossed into Thai territory in the Sam Tae area of Kantharalak District, Si Sa Ket Province. The Thai government calls on the Cambodian government to stop spreading false reports about the incident.
- The act of repatriation is not only a testament to Thailand's adherence to international humanitarian law, specifically the Geneva Conventions, but also a significant step in the broader context of general news, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in matters related to health, economy, politics, war-and-conflicts, and international relations.
- Amidst the ongoing investigation of eighteen additional Cambodian soldiers, this incident has sparked discussions in international politics, where the interpretation of sovereignty and the enforcement of territorial boundaries often intersect with economic interests and the global economy.
- The psychological evaluation and subsequent therapy provided to Acting Second Lieutenant Ang Aung before his repatriation is a crucial aspect of the health sector, highlighting the interconnectedness of global health issues with international conflicts and the need for comprehensive care in times of war and conflicts.
