PHNOM PENH, April 29, 2024 — Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia extended his deepest sympathies to the families of 20 soldiers killed in an ammunition explosion at the 3rd Military Zone in Kampong Speu province on Saturday, April 27. The incident also left several soldiers injured.

In a statement released on social media, Prime Minister Manet expressed his shock and sorrow over the tragic event, conveying condolences on behalf of the Royal Government as well as personally. “I am shocked to hear about the ammunition explosion incident, which killed 20 soldiers and injured several others,” he said.

The Prime Minister has directed Gen. Tea Seiha, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, along with Gen. Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, to organize a funeral for the deceased soldiers. Gen. Tea Seiha will represent the Prime Minister at the funeral ceremonies.

Additionally, the government has pledged to cover all funeral expenses and announced financial support for the victims' families and the injured soldiers. Each bereaved family will receive US$20,000, and each injured soldier will be given 20 million Riel (approximately US$5,000).

Prime Minister Manet also offered prayers for the souls of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.