Cambodia: Court Emphasizes Legal Procedure in Release of Copper Theft Suspect

Phnom Penh Municipal Court has officially stated that the release of a suspect in the copper theft case at Wat Svai Meas was carried out in accordance with legal procedures, emphasizing that this does not constitute a verdict of guilt or innocence. Mr. E Rin, Director of the Secretariat and Administration and Spokesperson for the Phnom Penh Municipal Court, issued a clarification to the public following public interest surrounding the suspect's release. According to the clarification, on September 14, 2026, a trial judge of the Phnom Penh Municipal Court held a hearing for criminal case No. 4864, dated August 20, 2026, involving a suspect named Kong Rothna, male, 65 years old, accused of stealing copper from Wat Svai Meas. The suspect was charged under Articles 353 and 356 of the Penal Code. After listening to the statements, arguments of the suspect and involved parties, and reviewing the facts, laws, and evidence in the case file, the trial judge issued a preliminary ruling to release Mr. Kong Rothna from detention. The court stated that this decision was made considering the suspect's advanced age and health issues. Concurrently with his release from detention, the court placed the suspect under judicial supervision and required him to adhere to certain obligations as determined by the court, in accordance with Articles 307 and 223 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Furthermore, the court issued an order for further forensic examination and a clear review of security camera footage, along with the examination of other related evidence, before proceeding to a final judgment. The spokesperson reiterated that the release of the suspect under judicial supervision at this stage does not mean a final decision has been made on his guilt or innocence. The case remains under the court's jurisdiction, and the final outcome will be based on the evidence collected, examined, and evaluated according to legal procedures, including the results of the forensic examination and video analysis. The Phnom Penh Municipal Court affirmed that all judicial procedures at every stage are implemented within the framework of legal authority and procedures. Therefore, the court appeals to the public to refrain from making premature conclusions about the suspect's guilt or innocence while the case is still pending a final decision. This clarification from the court indicates that release from detention does not signify the closure of the case or a declaration of innocence. The case is ongoing, and the court will make its determination based on the results of the investigation, evidence review, and prevailing legal procedures. Source: CEN Cambodia