Cambodia: 144 Dead in July Road Accidents, Stricter Law Enforcement to Resume

A total of 208 road traffic accidents occurred nationwide throughout July 2026, resulting in 144 fatalities and 245 injuries, according to official reports. This figure highlights the persistent threat to the lives of road users. The Ministry of Interior's report indicates that the primary causes of these accidents include speeding, failure to respect priority rights, driving on the wrong side, dangerous overtaking, careless turning, drunk driving, disregard for traffic signals, and vehicle malfunctions. During the first six months of 2026, road traffic accidents saw an increase compared to the same period in 2025. Specifically, accident cases rose by 213 (a 20% increase), fatalities increased by 79 (an 11% increase), and injuries grew by 468 (a 32% increase). Recognizing the ongoing threat to social safety posed by these road tragedies, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sar Sokha, who also chairs the National Road Safety Committee, has requested approval from Prime Minister Hun Manet to reinstate strict enforcement of road traffic laws across the country, effective September 1, 2026. In his request letter, the Minister of Interior informed the Prime Minister of his concerns regarding the escalating number of traffic accidents, especially after a period where law enforcement was temporarily relaxed to ease economic burdens on citizens.