Cambodia Cracks Down on Drug Ring Using Transport Companies

Cambodian authorities have successfully dismantled a large-scale drug trafficking network operating across Battambang and Siem Reap provinces, leading to the arrest of six suspects, including a couple identified as the ringleaders. The organization was reportedly using domestic transportation companies to smuggle methamphetamine. According to the Battambang Provincial Gendarmerie's Department of Investigation and Suppression of Crimes, the operation began a few days prior with the initial arrest of Ho Rithy, a 38-year-old male residing in Ouslang village, Chheu Teal commune, Banan district, Battambang province. Seized from him were two packages of methamphetamine, weighing approximately 6.68 grams, a mobile phone, and a motorcycle. Based on Rithy's confession, specialized forces continued their investigation and apprehended another suspect, Rin Saroun, 33, also known as "Dy," who is considered the mastermind behind Ho Rithy. Saroun resides in Bopoh village, Ou Dambang 1 commune, Sangke district, and was found with one package of methamphetamine weighing 5.80 grams, two mobile phones, and a motorcycle. Under the direct orders of Brigadier General Hem Vutthy, Commander of the Battambang Provincial Gendarmerie, and with the agreement of the Provincial Prosecutor, forces proceeded to a "Virak Bunthum" transportation company located at the Boeng Chhuk Kandal market in Battambang city. A search of packages at the delivery location uncovered three packages of methamphetamine totaling 301.37 grams. The operation then extended to Wat Kor village, where two more individuals were arrested: Chea Sros, 32, also known as "Tua," and Yim Siha, 35, both residing in Oujar village. Two mobile phones and a motorcycle were seized from them. Following clear confessions, the Battambang Provincial Gendarmerie's specialized unit collaborated with the Siem Reap Provincial Gendarmerie to apprehend the couple leading the drug operation, who were residing in Siem Reap city. The husband is Eng Rothana, 25, a car mechanic living in Tapul village, Svay Dangkum commune, Siem Reap city. His wife is Sok Sreynang, 26, who previously resided in Battambang city. During the operation in Siem Reap, authorities seized two packages of methamphetamine weighing 51.4 grams, a mobile phone, a drug weighing scale, a motorcycle, and several drug-use paraphernalia. In total, the Battambang Provincial Gendarmerie arrested six individuals, including one woman, and confiscated eight packages of methamphetamine with a total weight of 409.93 grams. The suspects and evidence have been processed and sent to the court. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Security