Thailand marks one year since Cambodia killed civilians with rocket attacks

Thailand held a memorial to mark the first anniversary of a horror Cambodian rocket attack that killed eight civilians.

Soldiers, monks, and bereaved families made offerings during the religious ceremony in Sisaket province on July 22.

The memorial was held at a PTT gas station, where a BM-21 rocket blast - overseen by former Khmer Rouge henchman Hun Sen - killed eight civilians and injured 13 others on July 24 last year.

The explosion, seen in the footage, caused extensive damage as it ripped through a 7-Eleven store, sending terrified locals fleeing.

The attack also caused extensive damage to buildings and property - sparking a renewed territorial conflict that has rumbled on ever since.

Station owner Kamonrat Phonsettalert said she still recalls the 'traumatic' event vividly as she urged officials to expedite aid to affected locals.

She said: ‘Today, I held a large memorial ceremony to mark the first anniversary of the worst tragedy I have ever experienced in my life.

‘Many people lost their lives inside the convenience store, and I still cannot forget that incident.

‘We chose to hold the ceremony today because it was a convenient day off for many people.

‘Regarding compensation, I have received all assistance from the private sector, but I have still not received any support from the government.

‘I would like to ask the relevant authorities for sympathy and urge them to expedite compensation and ensure that all victims are treated fairly.

‘I have accepted fuel donations from relatives and fuel traders, totalling 900 litres, to deliver to military personnel stationed along the border carrying out national defence duties.'

Butsaba Khamwang, 42, the mother of one of the deceased, said she has received all financial assistance she was entitled to, but remained devastated by her son's death.

She added: 'I want the government to keep the border closed and stop all trade with Cambodia so this never happens again.'

While another survivor, Khomsan Prachan, 41, said he returned to the scene for the first time since losing his wife and two children in the rocket attack.

He added: 'After the tragedy, I moved back to my hometown in Bueng Malu to live with my mother, but I still think about my wife and children every day. In April, I ordained as a monk for 15 days to honour them, and I will continue holding merit-making ceremonies in their memory.'

A border conflict erupted between Thailand and Cambodia in July 2025, following months of escalating tensions over disputed territory and a landmine explosion that injured Thai soldiers.

The months-long fighting saw both sides exchange artillery, rockets, and airstrikes, leaving dozens, including civilians, dead and more than half a million people displaced.

Both countries agreed to a shaky ceasefire on December 27, though the border situation remains highly tense.