Poipet, Cambodia – Renewed tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border have directly impacted the Don Bosco School in Poipet, located approximately 3.5 km from the frontier. According to local reports, the situation escalated between 7 and 10 December, prompting precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and staff.

On 7 December, the community heard shelling near the border, followed by a more intense outbreak of conflict on 8 December. Throughout the day, many parents arrived at the school to take their children home as a preventive measure. That evening, the Salesian community gathered to celebrate the Eucharist for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, seeking peace and protection for the region.

However, at around 9:45 p.m., students and staff were startled by shelling sounds extremely close to the school. In response, the school suspended classes on 9 December. The Salesians and lay mission partners immediately organized a coordinated plan to evacuate the 90 residential students and return them safely to their families.

Due to heavy traffic and a general exodus from Poipet, the evacuation had to be carried out in stages. Students were divided into groups—senior students, junior students, and accompanying staff—and each group was assigned a trusted driver to ensure safe transport home.

Even in the early hours of 10 December, shelling could still be heard near the area. By later that day, all students had been successfully evacuated and reunited with their families.

The Salesian community in Poipet continues to monitor the situation closely while maintaining communication with families and local authorities. The safety and well‑being of the young people entrusted to their care remain the top priority.