Thai Army Says Cambodian Troops Fired Near O Smach

Thailand’s 2nd Army Region said Cambodian soldiers fired 11 shots along the O Smach border area on 13 May 2026, but assessed the incident as a disciplinary lapse rather than a deliberate military action. The gunfire occurred across several locations near the Thai-Cambodian frontier during the early evening and prompted Thai authorities to increase border monitoring.

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According to the 2nd Army Region, the shooting began near Hill 278 east of Chong Chom before continuing along the eastern side of the road leading into O Smach. Reports stated that each location saw only one or two shots fired, with a total of 11 rounds discharged.

Thai military officials said preliminary investigations indicated the gunfire was likely caused by Cambodian troops acting without discipline. Authorities stressed that the shots were fired intermittently and did not appear to form part of a coordinated military operation.

The army said the shooting pattern did not suggest tactical intent because the rounds were scattered across multiple points and lacked any identifiable target. Officials added that there was no sustained burst of fire or indication of an attempt to escalate tensions along the border.

The incident followed earlier reports describing gunfire along the Or Samet line, where Cambodian troops were initially suspected of testing defensive positions. The border area has remained sensitive due to ongoing security concerns and increased monitoring by Thai forces.

Thai security forces said the overall situation remained under control and was being closely supervised by officials on the ground. No casualties or damage were reported following the exchange.

The 2nd Army Region has ordered units stationed along the Thai-Cambodian border to maintain heightened surveillance measures and continue monitoring developments around the clock. Officials said the additional precautions were intended to prevent any incident that could affect border security.

Amarin reported that military authorities have not indicated that further action will be taken against Cambodian forces at this stage. Monitoring operations are expected to continue as both sides assess the events surrounding the shooting near O Smach.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 14 May 2026

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