Cambodia Intensifies Crackdown on Forest Crimes, Vows Zero Tolerance for Illegal Logging and Land Grabs

Directives have been issued to strengthen the protection of forest resources and crack down on illegal activities in the area known as "Area 44" in Santuk district, Kampong Thom province, northeastern Cambodia. On August 5th, Major General Som Sun, Commander of the Kampong Thom Provincial Operational Zone and Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Provincial Committee for the Prevention, Suppression, and Crackdown on Natural Resource Crimes, visited the site and instructed the joint forces on their mission to prevent, suppress, and crack down on natural resource-related illegal activities in the area. Major General Som Sun emphasized that, in accordance with the orders of His Excellency Noun Pharat, Governor of Kampong Thom Province and Chairman of the Provincial Administration Unified Command, it is imperative to resolutely prevent forest encroachment and the unlawful occupation of state land for private ownership, particularly in Area 44, Ben Luva commune, Santuk district, Kampong Thom province. He also stated the need to intensify the crackdown on illegal logging and transportation of forest products, apprehending suspects in the act and handing them over with evidence to specialized authorities for legal prosecution. Furthermore, Major General Som Sun instructed all joint forces to foster good cooperation with relevant specialized institutions to effectively prevent, suppress, and crack down on natural resource crimes, emphasizing that this is for the benefit of society and future generations. He warned all joint force members against colluding with offenders in exchange for any benefits. He made it clear that any joint force member or individual involved in illegal activities or colluding with offenders will face disciplinary action from the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and legal punishment without exception. Source: CEN Cambodia