Oddar meanchey: The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has expressed deep concern over a cluster munition explosion that injured three electricity network workers in Banteay Ampil district, Oddar Meanchey province, this morning.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the incident occurred while the victims were carrying out their work duties. The explosion resulted in injuries ranging from serious to minor, once again highlighting the severe and indiscriminate dangers posed by unexploded cluster munitions left over from past conflicts.

The Authority conveyed its sincere sympathy to the injured workers and their families and reaffirmed its readiness to support coordination for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and other victim assistance services.

The CMAA stressed that the incident reflects a long-standing reality repeatedly emphasised by Cambodia: the humanitarian consequences of cluster munitions persist long after the end of war. Despite the cessation of armed conflict, explosive remnants of war continue to pose grave threats to lives, disrupt livelihoods, and hinder development for decades. Victims are overwhelmingly civilians, including farmers, workers, and children, who encounter such dangers during their daily activities.

In this context, the CMAA reiterated the urgent need to address the humanitarian impact of cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war, stressing that mine clearance, risk education, and victim assistance remain essential to protecting affected communities.

The Authority called on relevant institutions, the private sector, and all development partners operating in former conflict or border areas to closely coordinate with the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and other mine action operators prior to undertaking activities. Surveys, research, and clearance operations remain the most effective measures to prevent further casualties.

Cambodia, the CMAA added, remains firmly committed to responsibly and humanely addressing the legacy of explosive remnants of war and will continue to work with national and international partners to reduce risks and protect communities.