The Apsara National Authority (ANA), a state body tasked with managing the Angkor Archaeology Park, issued an immediate directive ordering an end to land clearing at an ancient ceramic kiln located in Tbaeng commune's Thmar Chol village of Siem Reap province’s Banteay Srei district, fearing that it could affect the base of the kiln.

ANA spokesman Long Kosal said on June 18 that local authorities are trying to prevent further clearing and had informed people to stop all activities there.

“The clearing affects the kiln. There are a lot of treasures under this kiln but we cannot name them yet. We have found some antiquities there. So, we tell our people to join us to prevent land clearing there and to protect the ancient site,” he said.

He said a part of the kiln was ravaged by a recent road construction by the locals, prompting the authorities to go inspect the site on June 15. Although the kiln itself was not affected, the construction destroyed some ancient ceramics.

He said the authorities had refilled the part that was damaged, and required that the road construction move further from the kiln. The ANA will now build a fence to protect the site.

According to the ANA, this kiln was constructed with smooth green layers, believed to be built in early Angkorian era between the 9th and 10 centuries. The ceramics found in the kiln have also been found in some parts in southern Vietnam.