"Navy" Discovered a stockpile of 16 anti-personnel mines modified from anti-tank mines, with clear evidence. "Cambodia" Violates the Ottawa Treaty.
On 19 Dec 2025, Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiphan, Navy spokesperson, explained that after the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command (CSDC) regained control of the area at Ban Nong Ree, previously used as a Cambodian military stronghold, the clearing operation uncovered a stockpile of 16 ready-to-use anti-personnel mines modified from anti-tank mines. This act intentionally creates indiscriminate danger and poses a serious threat to both military personnel and civilians.
Furthermore, during the seizure and inspection of the Pluk Kram Rey base area (Ban Sam Hong), Thai officials found Cambodian military documents consisting of training notes from personnel undergoing instruction in the use of PMN-2 anti-personnel mines. The materials covered general mine characteristics, deployment, and disposal, with training dated 7 Oct 2024.
These documents serve as clear evidence that Cambodia systematically and continuously trains its soldiers to operate PMN-2 anti-personnel mines, indicating deliberate intent to use "anti-personnel mine warfare" against Thailand. This further confirms a clear violation of international humanitarian law.
The Navy emphasizes that Cambodia's actions constitute a serious breach of international humanitarian law, violating multiple international obligations, including:
- The 1997 Ottawa Treaty, which prohibits the use, production, or possession of anti-personnel mines.
- Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions, which enshrines the principle of distinction between military targets and civilians and prohibits weapons or methods of warfare that cannot limit effects on military objectives.
The Navy spokesperson added that Cambodia’s possession, modification, and intent to use PMN-2 anti-personnel mines not only violate international legal obligations but also demonstrate a disregard for fundamental humanitarian principles.
The Navy strongly condemns Cambodia’s actions and calls on Cambodia to immediately cease these violations of international law, accept responsibility for the consequences affecting civilian safety and border stability.
Thailand affirms it will continue to protect its sovereignty, national security, and citizen safety strictly within the framework of international law and humanitarian principles.