Thai Army: Captured Cambodian soldiers to be freed after conflict ends
The Thai army announced today that the 18 detained Cambodian soldiers are being held in custody as prisoners of war and they will be released once the armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia ceases.
The army said that 20 Cambodian soldiers, including two wounded, surrendered to Thai troops during military operations at Ban Sam Tae in Kantharalak district of Si Sa Ket on July 29.
After their surrender, the army said that they were immediately removed from the risk area. Medical examinations and healthcare were provided promptly.
Two wounded soldiers were given proper medical treatment before being repatriated.
For the 18 soldiers still in custody, the army said that they have been provided with adequate and appropriate sustenance and clothing.
They are being treated as prisoners of war, because they are members of the Cambodian forces involved in an armed conflict with Thailand.
“’Prisoner of war’ is not a term of condemnation,” noted the Thai army, adding that it signifies a protected status under the Geneva Convention.
The Cambodian government has been demanding their immediate release.