As per the Ministry of Interior’s report covering January 2-15, authorities addressed the issue of youth gangs, handling 51 cases and apprehending 120 suspects across the nation.

Ministry spokesman Touch Sokhak said that minor and serious crime bureaus around the country are actively partnering with local communities. Operating under direct orders from the capital and provincial police, their goal is to prevent and crack down on juvenile gangs formed in villages, communes, public educational institutions and some private schools.

He added that addressing gang-related issues is among the six key priorities set by the ministry’s leadership, aiming to “ensure people’s comfort”. 

“Interior minister Sar Sokha closely watches the outcomes of weekly actions. He consistently appreciates the efforts of authorities, village security guards and all relevant actors, encouraging them to continue working carefully to responsibly serve the people,” Sokhak said.

Chhort Bunthong, head of the Culture, Education and Tourist Relations department at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said that several factors, such as parental influence, school environment and insufficient monitoring by local authorities, contribute to young people becoming involved in gangs.

He said that apart from law enforcement, outreach and education professionals fail to contribute to strict implementation and education. This lax approach allows some young people to cause social insecurity and conflicts. He emphasised the need for all stakeholders to actively participate in educating and guiding young adults.

Bunthong added that previous efforts by authorities to address gang-related issues seemed off-target and not focused on the actual causes. Underscoring the importance of pinpointing the root causes, he suggested that taking action on the right targets is crucial for effective intervention.

He also stated the need for authorities to establish a correctional centre or offer education for a specified period, like three days or a week, to prevent a repeat of such behaviour.

Phnom Penh Municipal Police spokesperson Sam Vichheka said that regarding juvenile delinquents, district police authorities have taken action, provided education and subsequently handed them over to their parents or guardians for additional discipline.

He said that if they repeat the offences, such as causing violence and disrupting public order, the authorities will send them for education at correctional centres overseen by the capital-provincial social affairs departments. If their behaviour doesn’t improve after leaving the correctional facility, legal measures will be taken, potentially leading to their arrest, court proceedings and even imprisonment.