Phnom Penh Police Deny Extortion Allegations in Theft Case Arrest

The Information and Rapid Reaction Team of the Phnom Penh Capital Police issued a statement on September 5, 2026, officially responding to allegations that authorities unlawfully detained and extorted money from a suspect during an arrest in Cambodia's Kompol district. According to the team, the incident began on August 12, 2026, with the theft of a "kong" (religious artifact) from within Wat Svay Meas in the Prathes Lang village, Prathes Lang commune, Kompol district. This was based on complaints filed by the abbot of Wat Svay Meas and corroborated by witness testimonies from monks at the temple. Specialized investigators, after analyzing security camera footage and with the cooperation of the Deputy Commissioner in charge of criminal affairs and a Deputy Prosecutor, identified the suspect. They subsequently arrested and questioned a 65-year-old male suspect named Kang Rotana, also known as Phal. Regarding the allegation of extortion of 600,000 Riel (approximately $150 USD) made by the suspect's wife, the police vehemently denied it, stating, "This is completely baseless and an accusation without concrete evidence." The police clarified that no money was handed over when the suspect was transferred from the temple, and the claim of violence against the suspect was also declared "untrue." The police stated that once sufficient evidence is gathered, they will proceed with legal procedures and forward the case to the court. The statement also included security camera footage showing the suspect committing the theft within the temple and being brought to the police station. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer