Cambodia Intensifies Forest Protection Efforts with Commander's Directive Against Illegal Logging

In Cambodia's Kampong Thom province, a directive was issued to joint forces aimed at strengthening forest resource protection and cracking down on illegal logging. On July 25, 2026, Major General Som Sun, Commander of the Provincial Military Operations Area and Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial Natural Resources Protection, Prevention, and Suppression Commission, visited three newly established forward command posts in Sandan district. The visit included the handover of food, supplies, and fuel to the joint forces stationed at these posts. Lieutenant Colonel Oeu Sothea, Commander of the Sandan District Military, Lieutenant Colonel Prek Chun Lai, Deputy Commander of the Ou Som Forward Command Post, and Lieutenant Junior Grade Oeu Lom, Commander of the Ou Kragnoy and Ou Das Skor Forward Command Posts, reported on the significant achievements and challenges faced by the forces. The joint forces at the three forward command posts are tasked with protecting community forests and the Preah Lang Wildlife Sanctuary within their respective areas of responsibility in Sandan district. They pledged to strictly adhere to the directives of the Provincial Natural Resources Crime Prevention Commission to successfully combat illegal activities. Major General Som Sun praised the joint forces at the three forward command posts for their diligent efforts. He acknowledged the difficulties and obstacles they have faced, including damaged transportation, complex terrain, and other challenges, but commended their high sense of responsibility in fulfilling their duties according to the plans assigned by leadership. The Major General issued the following three strict orders to all joint forces: 1. Eradicate the act of illegally logging forests and encroaching on state land for private ownership. 2. Crack down on the illegal logging and transportation of forest products and by-products. 3. Joint force personnel must absolutely not be involved in or collude with individuals who commit offenses under the illegal forestry law for personal gain. On this occasion, Major General Som Sun handed over food, supplies, and fuel, donated by HE Noun Pharat, Governor of Kampong Province and Chairman of the Provincial Administration Unity Command, to the joint forces at the three forward command posts for their daily use and to ensure the successful accomplishment of their missions. By: Sum Wanna © 2018 National News Agency of Cambodia