The Pursat provincial administration has warned of legal action against individuals who fail to leave the Phnom 1500 eco-tourism site within 15 days, noting that they may face imprisonment for up to 5 years and a fine of up to 500 million riel ($125,000).

In a March 11 notice, the provincial administration informed citizens still residing in the area in Dey Krahorm village, in Veal Veng district’s Anlong Reap commune, to vacate the area.

The provincial administration set a 15-day deadline from the date of the notice.

“In the event that the deadline passes and individuals still refuse to relocate or leave voluntarily, the provincial administration will take legal measures, and it will not be held responsible for any damage to property or valuable possessions,” said the notice.

Individuals who refuse to leave will face legal penalties under the Environment and Natural Resources Code’s Article 850, which states: “Offenders will be punished with imprisonment from 1 to 5 years and fines ranging from 100 million to 500 million riel”.

The decision is based on a February 2008 Royal Decree concerning the protection of natural areas, and Letter No. 785, issued in June last year by the Office of the Council of Ministers, regarding plans to convert the area into a green site.

The provincial administration previously issued at least two notices, in June and August 2024, related to the mandatory evacuation of citizens living in the area illegally.

The administration has prepared a new settlement site spanning over 150 hectares for residents willing to voluntarily relocate from the site. The new location is situated approximately 6 kilometres from the central roundabout in Veal Veng district.

A total of 98 households were illegally settled in the area, but most residents have agreed to move to the new location.