More Than 37,000 Displaced Cambodians Return as Border Tensions Ease

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Jan. 6, 2026) — More than 37,000 displaced Cambodians returned home in the past 24 hours as a ceasefire with Thai forces held, though authorities said they remain on high alert amid lingering security concerns along the frontier.

The Interior Ministry reported that 37,423 people resumed residence in their villages between 6 p.m. Jan. 4 and 6 p.m. Jan. 5, reducing the number of displaced civilians to 204,844. That figure includes more than 108,000 women and nearly 67,000 children, down from over 640,000 originally forced to flee.

Public services are gradually resuming in border provinces. In Oddar Meanchey, 176 schools and 33 hospitals and health centers have reopened. But in Banteay Meanchey and Preah Vihear, many schools and medical facilities remain closed due to security and logistical constraints.

Officials reported no new damage to civilian infrastructure during the latest period. Since Dec. 7, however, 323 homes and numerous schools, pagodas, temples, bridges, markets, and electricity facilities have been destroyed.

The ministry also alleged Thai forces cut locks and entered homes in Pursat Province, confiscating motorcycles and village equipment.

Government agencies said rehabilitation and mine clearance are underway, with food and shelter aid continuing for those unable to return. The Royal Government reaffirmed its call for an end to hostile military activity and respect for border agreements and international law.