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Soldiers die as Thai, Cambodian troops trade fire

A group of about 20 Cambodian soldiers "intruded" into Thai territory and opened fire after they were warned to leave by Thai soldiers, said Thai army spokesman Col. Sansern Kaewkunerd. Both sides exchanged gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades in a firefight that lasted about five minutes with no casualties

But in a second round of fighting two Thai soldiers died and 10 others were injured, said Thai army Lt. Col. Vichit Mugkarun.

Two Cambodian soldiers and nine others were injured in the battle, the official said

Cambodian officials could not be immediately reached for comment.

The fighting took place about 2 miles (3 km) from the 11th century Preah Vihear temple.

For months last year, the two countries saber-rattled over the ancient temple. The nations differ on whether some territory around the temple forms part of Thailand or Cambodia.