Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha. MoI
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha has urged police chiefs across the capital and provinces to be vigilant about issues related to gang members and drugs, attributing these problems to civil unrest and social instability.
Sokha made the comments during an October 19 graduation ceremony at the Police Academy of Cambodia (PAC) where four individuals – Loy Sophat, Chhay Sinarith, You Sinlong, and Kirth Chantharith – were awarded honorary doctorate degrees.
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They were honoured by King Norodom Sihamoni with the title “Santebandit” in recognition of their leadership roles in the national police.
Highlighting the broader challenges faced by the police, Sokha noted the pressing need for increased attention towards road traffic accidents, citing significant casualties and property damage.
He emphasised the importance of curbing drug-related offences and called for a targeted reduction in drug crimes by 20 to 30 per cent under the guidance of Prime Minister Hun Manet.
“The issue of gang members requires us to delve deep into the underlying causes that lead them to commit offences, resulting in public disorder and societal unrest,” he stated.
Am Sam Ath, deputy director of rights group LICADHO, agreed that drug-related issues remain a significant concern in Cambodian society, often giving rise to other crimes.
He emphasised the need for collaborative efforts both domestically and with neighbouring countries to curb the inflow of illicit drugs.
“It’s imperative to foster strong cooperation within the nation and with our bordering countries to tackle the drug menace. However, a parallel focus should be on rooting out corruption and penalising officials involved in drug dealings,” Sam Ath added.
Sokha invited the four recipients to deliver lectures at the Police Academy of Cambodia, ensuring the national police benefit from their extensive experience and insights.
He stated that the dignitaries merited their titles due to their longstanding dedication to the ministry since the nation’s Victory Day, when the Khmer Rouge regime was toppled on January 7, 1979.
