Cambodia: Traffic Accidents Rise After Fines Suspended, Police Urge Public Compliance

Traffic accidents causing death and injury have seen an increase, along with a sharp rise in the number of citizens not complying with traffic laws, following the suspension of fines for traffic violations. This was confirmed by General Chuon Narinh, Deputy Commissioner General and Police Commissioner of Phnom Penh, to "Kampuchea Thmey" on Thursday afternoon. However, he stated that he has no intention of requesting the leadership to reinstate fines, emphasizing his desire for everyone to comply with the law to reduce accidents. Speaking to "Kampuchea Thmey" on the afternoon of July 30th, General Chuon Narinh, Deputy Commissioner General and Police Commissioner of Phnom Penh, stated: "My objective is for citizens and the public to join in respecting the law; I have no intention of requesting the reinstatement of fines. This is a task for the public to participate in respecting the law to reduce daily traffic accidents." It is worth recalling that in late March, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sar Sokha, issued guidance to traffic police to suspend the collection of fines for traffic law violations. However, the strict enforcement of traffic laws, such as checking for alcohol levels in drivers under the influence, continues. Currently, according to the Police Commissioner of Phnom Penh, law enforcement officers conduct surprise checks for alcohol levels in drivers at several checkpoints within the jurisdiction of Phnom Penh at midnight. General Chuon Narinh explained that any decision to resume strict enforcement of traffic laws in Phnom Penh and all provinces across the Kingdom of Cambodia will only be made after an assessment by the relevant specialized departments, followed by a proposal to the Director General of National Police and awaiting a decision from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. By: Ngil Narath