Cambodian Army Says Capybara Plushie Mascot Was Never at Risk

ANGKRONG — Cambodia’s Defense Ministry on Tuesday denied widespread speculation that an official capybara plush mascot was endangered after video surfaced showing a soldier shielding it with his hand while Thai artillery landed nearby. Spokesperson Maly Socheata said the plushie, nicknamed Anṭaek, “was never at risk, either physically or psychologically,” despite being positioned inside an active trench during the exchange. Socheata dismissed questions about whether Anṭaek should have been removed from the area, explaining that the mascot holds the rank of Major General and therefore “cannot abandon his post during heightened tensions.” According to the ministry, Anṭaek was present to receive real-time updates, review shifting tactical conditions, and oversee rice consumption at the unit level. “The soldier’s gesture was not protective,” Socheata clarified, “but symbolic of proper respect within the chain of command.” Officials added that Anṭaek remained fully mission-capable throughout the incident, and warned that future attempts to characterize him as “a plush toy” may be viewed as hostile misinformation.