PHNOM PENH, Dec. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Thai army on Monday afternoon expanded its attack area to Banteay Meanchey province after it attacked military positions and civilian zones in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, said a Cambodian defense spokesperson.

"The Thai army has expanded its attacks to Banteay Meanchey province, firing on civilians in Prey Chan and Chouk Chey villages indiscriminately, using small arms and heavy weapons," Cambodian Defense Ministry's Undersecretary of State and spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said in a press release.

After opening fire on Cambodian forces and civilians in the Military Region 4 in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces from 05:04 a.m. on Monday, the Thai army expanded its attack on civilians in Prey Chan and Chouk Chey villages in Banteay Meanchey province at 13:36 p.m., she said.

Socheata said the Thai military's attack has destroyed numerous homes, forcing the local innocent civilians to flee their homes for safe places. Enditem