Driver Charged for Drug-Influenced Collision Causing Fatalities and Injuries

A tragic traffic accident in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, has resulted in the death of a 13-year-old girl and serious injuries to a 44-year-old woman, caused by a driver operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs. The Phnom Penh Municipal Prosecutor's Office has charged the driver, identified as Tri Sakkada, 33, with drug abuse, driving under the influence of narcotics, and causing a traffic accident resulting in injuries and death. The incident occurred on August 7th at approximately 2:30 PM at an intersection in Sen Sok District. Sakkada, driving a BYD SEALION 5, reportedly reversed after waiting at a traffic light, colliding with a TOYOTA SCION XA. The vehicle then continued to reverse and struck a HONDA ZOOMER-X motorcycle. The 13-year-old girl on the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the hospital, while the 44-year-old female rider sustained severe injuries. Authorities conducted alcohol and drug tests on the suspect. While no alcohol was detected in Sakkada's system, the test confirmed the use of MDMA (Ecstasy). The prosecutor has initiated charges against Sakkada under the Law on Drug Control and the Law on Road Traffic, citing articles related to drug use, driving under the influence, and causing accidents. The case is currently under further investigation by an examining judge at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court. This incident underscores the critical issues of drug abuse and reckless driving in Cambodia, and the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures, particularly given the tragic loss of a young life.