New data from the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) indicates that approximately 3,872 square kilometers of land across seven provinces remain hazardous due to explosive remnants of war. The contamination is a direct result of armed conflict along the Cambodia-Thailand border that occurred in 2025.
CMAC director-general Heng Ratana reported that baseline surveys identified 5,348 hazardous sites across 22 districts. The findings include over 18,500 pieces of physical evidence, ranging from bomb and cluster munition strike sites to various other unexploded ordnance (UXO). According to the agency, Thai forces fired between 120,000 and 130,000 cluster artillery shells during the fighting, potentially leaving millions of unexploded submunitions scattered throughout the region.
Despite a ceasefire established in December 2025, the presence of these explosives continues to hinder the return of displaced residents. The Ministry of Interior noted that more than 20,000 people remain displaced, with significant damage reported to homes, schools, and public infrastructure. CMAC has prioritized clearing land around essential facilities, including health centers and schools, to facilitate the safe return of these communities.
Between January and June 2026, demining teams destroyed over 8,400 pieces of ordnance. However, officials warn that the total scale of contamination may be higher, as survey teams have yet to access certain frontline combat zones and 14 specific villages. CMAC continues to conduct risk education sessions and clearance operations as security conditions allow.
Source: Phnom Penh Post
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