Clash Between Two Chinese Groups in Phnom Penh Leads to Arson, Five Seriously Injured

In Phnom Penh's Dangkao district, a heated dispute between two Chinese groups over money escalated into violence around 4:45 PM on September 16th. The incident turned into a large fire when a suspect allegedly doused a house with gasoline and set it ablaze, resulting in five individuals sustaining severe burns. The injured include two Chinese nationals, two Cambodian women, and a 7-month-old Chinese infant. The incident occurred at House No. 23, Street No. 25, within Borey Piphop Thmey Kua Srouy 2, located in Krang Svay village, Prek Kampous commune. According to a security guard at the site, a Chinese man, identified as a victim, and another Chinese man, believed to be the suspect, were arguing about financial matters. The specifics of the monetary dispute remain unclear. Following the argument, the suspect allegedly poured gasoline into the house and set it on fire with the intent to harm the other party. The fire spread rapidly, and despite efforts by neighbors and security personnel using fire extinguishers, it could not be immediately controlled. Household items were also destroyed. Fire trucks from the housing development intervened and extinguished the blaze. The five injured victims suffered burns on their bodies, limbs, and faces and were transported to the hospital for emergency treatment. The identities of the victims and the suspect have not yet been confirmed. The suspect, identified as Chinese, fled the scene after the incident. Authorities are currently investigating.