PREAH VIHEAR (AFP) — Thai and Cambodian troops ceased hostilities on Wednesday along their disputed border more than two hours after gunfire broke out, according to the Cambodian army.
The countries began exchanging fire at 2.20pm and finished at 4.40pm, Brigadier Hom Sam Ol told AFP -- although the time frame was disputed by Thailand.
"The gunfire was suspended five minutes ago," Hom Sam Ol said at 4.45pm (09.45 GMT), adding that it stopped at a Thai commander's request.
Thai army spokesman Colonel Sunsern Kaewkumnerd said the Cambodians started the battle.
"The fighting began at 2:30pm and lasted for 40 minutes. It was triggered by a Thai patrol unit's encounter with their Cambodian counterpart... the Cambodian side ignited fighting with rifles," Sunsern said, adding that he believed ongoing talks between the two sides would prevent the situation from escalating.
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