Cambodia: Senior Gendarmerie Officer Involved in Traffic Accident Faces Legal Action and Disciplinary Measures

The National Gendarmerie of Cambodia has announced that legal and disciplinary actions will be taken against a senior gendarmerie officer from Kampong Thom province who was involved in a traffic accident in Phnom Penh. Colonel Eng Hy, spokesperson for the National Gendarmerie, stated on September 15 that the gendarmerie had seen information circulating on social media regarding a gendarmerie officer from Kampong>>, Kampong Thom province who caused a traffic accident on the night of September 14. Colonel Hy informed the public and media that Colonel Yi Samoun, Deputy Commander of the Kampong Thom Provincial Gendarmerie, has been summoned by Colonel Meas Yot, Commander of the Kampong Thom Provincial Gendarmerie, to provide clarification and will face legal proceedings and military disciplinary measures. According to the National Gendarmerie spokesperson, Colonel Yi Samoun is currently at the Phnom Penh Municipal Police Headquarters. The incident occurred around 11 PM on September 14 in the Teuk La'a commune, Sen Sok district, Phnom Penh, along the Russian Federation Boulevard. The driver of a luxury Ford Ranger, identified as Colonel Yi Samoun, was allegedly speeding and collided with two other vehicles and one motorcycle, resulting in one person being injured and sent to the hospital. The driver of the vehicle that caused the accident is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol. This incident highlights the importance of accountability for law enforcement officials and the application of law irrespective of rank. Source: CEN Cambodia