Border troops reduction following Hun Xen’s order

Monday, August 24, 2009
Everyday.com.kh
Translated from Khmer by Socheata

Following Hun Xen’s order to cut troops at the Preah Vihear temple area, a report indicated that Cambodian troops stationed along the Preah Vihear temple border are gradually being reduced and they were sent back to their original barracks. General Srey Doek, the Cambodian army commander defending Preah Vihear temple region, told The Phnom Penh Post on Sunday that a number of troops reduction took place as ordered by Hun Xen. A number of soldiers are returning to their barracks in various provinces since yesterday. Srey Doek indicated that this reduction will not affect the border protection in Preah Vihear temple region because the situation there is returning back to normal. Furthermore, Srey Doek indicated that each Cambodian soldier stationed along the border can take responsibility for their bases. Srey Doek added if the situation requires for the return of the soldiers, these soldiers will need only 20 minutes.