Cambodian Families Displaced: An Emergency Shelter and Government Response to the Border Crisis

Following the tragic incident on November 12 at the Cambodian border, hundreds of families were forced to flee their villages to seek refuge in an emergency shelter.

The attack led by Thai soldiers in the village of Prey Chan, O’Chrov district, Banteay Meanchey province, caused one death and several injuries among civilians, plunging the area into deep distress and unprecedented humanitarian mobilization.

A Border Tragedy and Massive Evacuation

The incident, which occurred late in the afternoon, involved live gunfire targeting unarmed Cambodian civilians, resulting in the death of a villager and injuring three others. According to local authorities, the shootings happened twice, the first around 3:50 PM, and the second around 5:54 PM, aimed at residents walking on a dyke near the border. Facing the emergency, provincial authorities ordered the immediate evacuation of the entire village of Prey Chan—approximately 250 families—along with residents of Chouk Chey, another border village exposed to danger. More than 800 people were displaced within hours, leaving behind their homes, rice fields, and livelihoods.

A Temporary Sanctuary at Chan Sy Samaki Ratanaram Pagoda

The Wat Chan Sy Samaki Ratanaram, a pagoda located in O’Beichoan commune, was quickly converted into an emergency shelter. Under the supervision of provincial authorities and with support from local donors, the site now hosts hundreds of displaced families. Tents have been erected in the monastery courtyard, providing makeshift shelter to those who lost everything. Medical teams composed of local professionals and volunteers ensure ongoing medical care, while food distributions and hygiene kits are regularly delivered to meet essential needs.

The prompt government response was praised by the refugees themselves. Khon Samnang, a resident of Prey Chan, testified: “We were terrified, but arriving here and seeing the authorities preparing shelter and immediately distributing food, we were very grateful. Without this support, we would not know how to survive: we fled with nothing.” Another resident, Chhin Chhay, aged 76, confirmed: “I feel safe here, with a roof, food, and medical care.”

Government Mobilization and National Solidarity

The provincial governor of Banteay Meanchey, Oum Reatrey, highlighted the royal government’s commitment to guarantee the safety and welfare of all affected citizens. “Provincial authorities have prepared the necessary facilities to ensure their well-being by organizing lodging and providing essential products. The royal government will not leave any citizen without a solution during this sensitive period,” he stated at a press conference. Medical teams, security agents, and volunteers work tirelessly to maintain essential services, while private donors and charitable organizations offer logistical and financial support.

A Symbol of Resilience and Humanity

Beyond its role as a shelter, Chan Sy Samaki Ratanaram Pagoda has become a symbol of solidarity and resilience. It embodies Cambodia’s capacity to respond with humanity and efficiency to the crises affecting its citizens. Though marked by fear and loss, displaced families express gratitude toward the authorities and volunteers who have helped them through this ordeal. Their hope for a swift return to stability and peace remains fragile, but the collective mobilization offers tangible comfort in uncertainty.

As tensions persist at the border, the shelter remains a convergence point between concern and hope. Authorities maintain a high alert level while working to restore security and return affected populations to normal life.