Cambodia and Thailand traded accusations of fresh clashes along their border on Wednesday, after Bangkok said it was pausing the implementation of a US-backed peace deal.

Cambodian information minister Neth Pheaktra told AFP “Thai soldiers opened fire on civilians”, wounding at least five in Prey Chan village of Banteay Meanchey Province, citing a toll from local authorities.

Richa Suksuwanon, deputy spokesperson of the Royal Thai Army, told reporters that soldiers heard small arms fire from the Cambodian side around 4:00 pm (0900 GMT) but “did not return fire”.

“It is believed to be a provocation by the Cambodian side,” he said. (AFP)