Cambodian Deputy Police Chief Dismissed for Drug Use After Traffic Accident

In Poipet City, Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodia, Deputy Police Chief Colonel Peng Do has been dismissed from his position by the Ministry of Interior after being found to have used narcotics. The dismissal followed a traffic accident where he collided with a motorcycle, causing injuries to three women. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sar Sokha, stated that police officers involved in traffic accidents must be held responsible for their victims. He further emphasized that if drug use is confirmed through testing, administrative measures, including dismissal from service, must be implemented swiftly. Colonel Peng Do was reportedly driving a car without license plates when he hit the motorcycle in Poipet City. Following the incident, he allegedly attempted to leave the scene before negotiating compensation with the victims. A total of 14 million Riel (approximately $358) was reportedly paid to the three injured women. Subsequent tests conducted by authorities confirmed the presence of narcotics in his system. Minister Sar Sokha stressed that responsibility for traffic accident victims cannot substitute for accountability in cases of drug use by police officers. He reiterated that if evidence of drug use is established, the procedure for dismissal from the framework must be followed without undue delay. This dismissal comes at a time when the Ministry of Interior is actively working to reinforce the discipline and accountability of national police officers, particularly those who commit offenses or are involved in criminal activities. It is recalled that during September 2026, two other deputy police chiefs in Poipet City faced disciplinary actions related to their service. Earlier in September, Colonel Ren Sopha, Deputy Police Chief of Poipet City, was suspended from his duties for allegedly using seized evidence, including cars and motorcycles from an online gambling crackdown, for personal use. These cases highlight the ongoing tightening of discipline on police officers who violate orders and the disciplinary code of the national police force. Information Source: CEN Cambodia