(Phnom Penh): Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, announced that out of the 21 Cambodian military personnel detained by Thailand, Cambodia has so far received the body of one soldier. The country continues to demand the safe return of the remaining 20 soldiers.

Speaking at a press conference on the morning of July 31, 2025, the Defense Ministry’s spokesperson stated: "Of the 21 Cambodian troops currently under Thai control, we have thus far received one body. We are now working to ensure the other 20 are safely returned.”

She emphasized that Cambodia’s foremost priority remains the protection of national territory, the safety of its citizens, and the preservation of peace without allowing the outbreak of any new conflict. She called on the public to continue placing their trust in the government and the brave soldiers who are tirelessly and patriotically defending the homeland.

The spokesperson further affirmed, "We will continue negotiations to the fullest extent in order to swiftly and safely bring all our comrades home. In this regard, we appeal to the Thai side to expedite the return of our 20 soldiers, along with any others who may also be under their control."

She urged the public to remain calm and assured that the Royal Government, the Ministry of National Defence, and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) would never abandon any of their troops under any circumstances.

Socheata added that the Cambodian Minister of National Defence has been working with the Acting Thai Defence Minister, and that Cambodia’s Commander-in-Chief has also sought the intervention of the Malaysian Armed Forces Commander. Meanwhile, frontline commanders have been and are continuing efforts to resolve the situation.

"We firmly hope that they will be safely returned soon," she concluded.
=FRESH NEWS