Phnom Penh, August 13, 2025  — The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has reported that Thailand employed cluster munitions during recent hostilities along the Cambodian-Thai border. The use of these munitions was confirmed over the past five days, involving 155mm artillery shells that contain 56 M46 submunitions each. These submunitions pose significant risks due to their potential to fail to detonate upon impact, creating dangerous unexploded remnants.

According to CMAC, unexploded M46 submunitions can affect extensive areas and endanger local populations when lodged in trees, rooftops, ground surfaces, or water bodies. CMAC technical teams have conducted surveys, located several unexploded submunitions, and initiated clearance operations in affected areas to mitigate risks to residents.

Authorities have issued safety advisories to communities in Samraong and Banteay AmpNEY districts of Banteay Meanchey province, as well as Choam Khsant district in Preah Vihear province. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution, refrain from touching or moving suspicious objects, and report any sightings of suspected cluster munitions or unexploded ordnance (UXO) to local authorities or CMAC specialists.

The use of cluster munitions is a contentious issue under international law. The Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), an international treaty banning the use, production, and stockpiling of these weapons, entered into force in 2010 and has been ratified by 123 countries. However, Thailand remains not a signatory to this treaty, raising ongoing concerns about the proliferation and use of such munitions in the region.

CMAC continues to monitor the situation closely and emphasizes the importance of community awareness and adherence to safety protocols to prevent casualties and facilitate clearance operations.