Phnom Penh Authorities Relocate 7 Homeless Individuals to Social Affairs Department

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Authorities in Chom Chao 3 Commune, Por Sen Chey District, Phnom Penh, have collaborated with the Department of Social Affairs to round up seven homeless individuals, citing concerns over public order. The operation, which occurred on September 4th, focused on individuals found to be living on public streets, under bridges, and in vacant lots. Va Savoeun, the commune chief of Chom Chao 3, reportedly tasked Chan Sokchan, the commune's chief of order, to lead the operation. This team, comprising commune guards and officers from the Chom Chao 3 Administrative Police Post, worked alongside representatives from the Department of Social Affairs to identify and apprehend the homeless individuals. The authorities stated that the presence of these individuals was negatively impacting the local order and sanitation. Out of the seven individuals apprehended, two are women. They have all been transferred to the Department of Social Affairs in Phnom Penh, where their situation will be further assessed and appropriate measures will be taken. This move underscores the Phnom Penh municipality's broader efforts to manage urban spaces and address issues related to homelessness, especially as the city continues to develop and host various public events. The objective is to maintain a clean and orderly environment for residents and visitors alike.