Tensions between the two countries came to a head again after a small exchange of gunfire this afternoon escalated into heavy fighting between the Thai and Cambodian troops, in at least three spots in the vicinity of the Preah Vihear temple. No reports of casualties or deaths, but it’s been reported that the firefights have taken place within the disputed area and that Cambodian troops have used rockets.
Heavy gunfire at Thai-Cambodia border
AFP, via Channel NewsAsia, 03 April 2009
Gunfire on Thai-Cambodian border
BBC News, 03 April 2009
Heavy gunfire broke out Friday on the disputed Thai-Cambodian border, a Cambodian commander told AFP, following a brief exchange of shots earlier in the day.
“We are in a gun fight with the Thai soldiers now. There is heavy gunfire along the border,” commander Bun Thean told AFP.
He said shots had been fired between troops in at least three spots near the ancient Preah Vihear temple on the border, which has never been fully demarcated.
Cambodian soldier Yeim Kheang, stationed at the border, confirmed to AFP by telephone that both sides were firing shots, saying the exchange began at 2:00 pm (0700 GMT).
