CHANHTABURI, Thailand – A Cambodian national suspected of espionage has been detained by Thai military forces in Chanthaburi province. The suspect, identified as Mr. Oeun Khoem, 43, entered Thailand legally on a NON-LA visa on March 12, 2025, with permission valid until March 11, 2027.
He was invited for questioning by the Naval Special Task Force of Chanthaburi, after intelligence suggested he was operating as a military spy. The suspect was brought to Pong Nam Ron Police Station, where officers from the Chanthaburi Immigration Police and the Provincial Investigation Division participated in the interrogation.
Authorities acted after Mr. Khoem posted suspicious content on Facebook, including a caption that read “THAILAND ATTACKS FIRST, CAMBODIA DEFENDS”, along with images that raised red flags. Further investigation uncovered a Cambodian military uniform in his pickup truck and at his residence in Thailand.
Although his passport and visa were confirmed to be valid, military investigators expressed concern over his activities and sent his mobile phone for forensic examination by digital experts. Preliminary questioning led to a confession.
Mr. Khoem admitted he is an intelligence officer holding the rank of Lieutenant in the Cambodian military, ID number 157625. He acknowledged entering Thailand with the purpose of gathering sensitive information regarding Thai military movements and reporting back to Cambodian forces. According to his statement, this intelligence would be used in the event of future military confrontations between the two countries.
Military officials continue to treat the case as a serious breach of national security. The suspect remains in custody as the investigation deepens and digital forensics specialists analyze data on his devices.
Photos and original reporting courtesy: Channel 5 Thailand
