A Cambodian man was killed instantly and another seriously injured in a cluster munition explosion at around 11.30am this morning, March 19.
The incident, which took place in Banteay Meanchey province’s Boeung Snor village, in Svay Chek district’s Slakram commune, underscores the continuing danger posed by remnants of war following the Thai invasion in December, during which unexploded ordnance — particularly cluster munitions — continues to threaten civilian lives.
According to authorities, the deceased was identified as Chan Sareth, 44, while Ta Jas, 47, sustained serious injuries and was rushed to the provincial capital’s Cambodia-Japan Friendship Hospital.
Authorities said the explosion occurred after Sareth reportedly brought the cluster munition to Ta Jas’s house and handled it, triggering an explosion.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Cambodian Mine Action Authority renewed appeals to the public to exercise extreme caution when encountering mines, unexploded ordnance, cluster bombs or any suspicious objects.
Citizens were warned not to touch, tamper with or move such items, as they pose a constant risk of death, injury or disability.
The authorities urged the public to immediately report any suspicious objects to local authorities, police, village or commune chiefs, or mine clearance operators via the following hotlines: 012 800 473, 011 38 39 37, 097 489 5600, 066 612 613 and 063 96 34 99.
