Thai Forces Uncover Extensive Cambodian Rock-Carved Tunnel Network Along Disputed Border
Underground military facilities with fortified storage and shelter chambers discovered during clearance operations amid a fragile ceasefire
Thai military units operating near the disputed frontier with Cambodia have discovered a sophisticated network of underground tunnels carved deeply into rock, revealing extensive defensive engineering by Cambodian forces as tensions persist despite a fragile ceasefire.
The tunnel system, uncovered during routine clearance operations around former conflict zones, contained large ammunition caches, reinforced shelters and living quarters constructed for long-term use.
According to commanders from Thailand’s Second Army Region, the tunnels stretch for dozens of metres and feature multiple interconnected chambers that appear designed to store weapons securely and to provide sheltered positions for troops.
The rock-hewn passages showed signs of substantial excavation and planning, with reinforced sections and separate spaces for supplies and accommodation.
The discovery was documented by Thai forces after the ceasefire, which took effect on December 27, held in sectors along the border, allowing for safer movement and inspection.
Officials highlighted that while the border remained calm at key checkpoints across Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin and Buriram provinces, Cambodian units continued to strengthen defensive positions and supply lines behind the front lines.
Activities such as sandbag placements, trench digging and repairs to infrastructure were observed, underscoring ongoing preparations even as open hostilities have paused under the truce agreement.
Thai commanders stressed that vigilance and monitoring would continue to ensure stability across the frontier.
The discovery of the underground complex comes as both countries navigate a period of reduced overt conflict following a prolonged border crisis that sparked intense clashes earlier in late two thousand twenty-five.
While political leaders moved forward with repatriating detainees and reinforcing the ceasefire, military officials on both sides remain alert to developments, emphasising that maintaining calm requires sustained observation and restraint in tactical deployments near the contested boundary.
The tunnel system, uncovered during routine clearance operations around former conflict zones, contained large ammunition caches, reinforced shelters and living quarters constructed for long-term use.
According to commanders from Thailand’s Second Army Region, the tunnels stretch for dozens of metres and feature multiple interconnected chambers that appear designed to store weapons securely and to provide sheltered positions for troops.
The rock-hewn passages showed signs of substantial excavation and planning, with reinforced sections and separate spaces for supplies and accommodation.
The discovery was documented by Thai forces after the ceasefire, which took effect on December 27, held in sectors along the border, allowing for safer movement and inspection.
Officials highlighted that while the border remained calm at key checkpoints across Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin and Buriram provinces, Cambodian units continued to strengthen defensive positions and supply lines behind the front lines.
Activities such as sandbag placements, trench digging and repairs to infrastructure were observed, underscoring ongoing preparations even as open hostilities have paused under the truce agreement.
Thai commanders stressed that vigilance and monitoring would continue to ensure stability across the frontier.
The discovery of the underground complex comes as both countries navigate a period of reduced overt conflict following a prolonged border crisis that sparked intense clashes earlier in late two thousand twenty-five.
While political leaders moved forward with repatriating detainees and reinforcing the ceasefire, military officials on both sides remain alert to developments, emphasising that maintaining calm requires sustained observation and restraint in tactical deployments near the contested boundary.
