Phnom Penh: A man knelt, placed both palms in front of his face, and repeatedly bowed his head to the ground to pay deep respect to two Cambodian soldiers for their great sacrifice for the nation. It happened on the side of the road as an ambulance was transporting the two soldiers to the hospital. A video of the man’s actions has gone viral on social media and has deeply touched the hearts of many Cambodians.

Both of them were among about 20 Cambodian soldiers whom Thai soldiers captured using a trick. The two were released at 11 a.m. on August 1, 2025. After crossing the border into Cambodian territory, they were brought into an ambulance. Cambodian people expressed respect for their sacrifices, felt pity for them, and also felt profound pain because both had been mistreated by Thai military during their captivity.

Both soldiers returned not in the same physical or mental condition as before. One is now unable to walk and has to use a wheelchair, while the other can walk only slowly and with assistance.

Please let the international community take notice of this cruel act, and Thailand must take responsibility. This mistreatment of Cambodian soldiers clearly shows that Thai soldiers violated the ceasefire agreement previously established by both countries in Malaysia on the evening of July 28.

Only a few hours after the ceasefire officially took effect, in the morning of July 29, Thai troops opened fire, while Cambodian forces did not retaliate in order to honor the ceasefire agreement. Later, Thai soldiers used a trick by waving their hands to call for negotiation, and over 20 Cambodian troops walked toward them.

At that moment, the Thai troops raised their guns and captured the Cambodian soldiers. Among the more than 20 Cambodian troops, one was shot dead, two escaped and survived, and around 20 were captured. As of now, about 18 Cambodian soldiers remain in Thai military custody.