At least 12 killed in border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand

The neighbours have both accused each other of firing first on Thursday morning, following months of heightened tension.

At least 12 have been killed since border clashes broke out between Thailand and Cambodia on Thursday morning, the Thai authorities have said.

Both countries accused the other of shooting first in a serious escalation of their long-running border dispute.

The Thai army first reported a death toll of nine civilians, stating six citizens had died in Sisaket province, two in Surin province and one in Ubon Ratchathani province. At least 17 other people have been wounded, according to Thai authorities.

Cambodia, which is yet to release its own casualty figures, claimed that Thai jets dropped bombs on a road near the ancient Preah Vihear temple.

Read more: Euronews