Cambodian and Thai troops involved in incident

Cambodian and Thai troops were involved in a minor incident along the border of the two countries on 3 October 2008. According to reports, the soldiers exchanged gunfire at approximately 0345 local time (0845 UTC) near the disputed Preah Vihear temple near the Si Sa Ket border province. Five soldiers were reportedly injured in the exchange. Cambodian officials stated that the gunfire began after Thai troops crossed into the disputed territory. Reports indicate that M-79 rockets and M-16 assault rifles were used by the Thai soldiers after Cambodian soldiers turned them away, to which Cambodian troops responded with B-40 rockets and Ak-47 rifles. The border dispute between the two countries has escalated since Preah Vihear was granted world heritage status for Cambodia, which sparked the military standoff in July 2008. Although negotiations are currently underway, incursions such as this one could escalate tensions. Newly elected Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat is set to visit Cambodia on 13 October.