PHNOM PENH, Oct 22: Hundreds of Thai gamblers are avoiding Cambodian casinos a week after a territorial dispute between the neighbouring countries turned deadly, a tourism official said on Wednesday.

The months-long military standoff at the border between the two countries escalated into shooting on Oct 15 that killed one Thai and three Cambodian soldiers near Cambodia’s ancient Preah Vihear temple.

“Since the gunfight erupted, Thai nationals who come to visit casinos have dropped significantly. Only around 20 per cent of gamblers remain at the casinos,” said Bou Vibol, chief of the Cambodian tourism office at Poipet border checkpoint, where there are several casinos catering to Thais.—AFP