Two Cambodian UN Peacekeepers Killed in South Sudan Shooting

Two Cambodian peacekeepers serving with the United Nations in South Sudan were fatally shot on Tuesday, in an incident that has cast a sombre shadow over the country’s proud record in international peacekeeping.

The victims, identified as Doung Magaly and Phat Muny of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces' 872nd Battalion, were stationed at the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) base in Malakal — a volatile region in the country's northeast. The shooting occurred within the compound, according to UNMISS spokesperson Priyanka Chowdhury, who confirmed that an investigation is underway but did not provide further details.

The deaths have prompted a wave of national mourning in Cambodia. Former Prime Minister and current Senate President Hun Sen issued a letter of condolence, praising the fallen soldiers for their “unwavering dedication” and calling their deaths a loss not just to their families, but to the nation.

Prime Minister Hun Manet echoed those sentiments, describing the two men as courageous and morally upright individuals who had brought honour to the Kingdom through their service under the UN flag. “Their selfless contribution represents a significant part of Cambodia’s commitment to global peace,” he wrote.

General Tea Seiha, Cambodia’s Minister of National Defence, also paid tribute, calling their sacrifice a reflection of “profound love for their homeland” and a powerful testament to Cambodia’s solidarity with international peace efforts.

Cambodia has been an active contributor to UN peacekeeping operations since 2006, with nearly 10,000 troops deployed to missions in conflict zones including Sudan, Syria, Lebanon and Mali. Tuesday’s tragedy marks one of the most serious incidents involving Cambodian peacekeepers in recent years.

As investigations continue, the deaths of Magaly and Muny serve as a stark reminder of the dangers peacekeepers face daily, and the enduring cost of Cambodia’s commitment to global stability.

-2025-05-16