Pursat (FN), Apr. 22 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet issued a firm warning to individuals engaged in environmental offences, particularly in protected forests and on the Tonle Sap Lake. He urged them not to resort to violence against law enforcement officers carrying out their duties. He further authorised officials to employ self-defence measures if attacked, and stated that he would take full responsibility for such actions.

The premier spoke on Tuesday (Apr. 22) at the inauguration of new Ford production line and Ford sub-assembly plant of RMA (Cambodia) Plc. in Pursat Province.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, “Firstly, I instruct the commander-in-chief and regional commanders to operate collectively with their officers, to maintain open communication, and to coordinate every action carefully. Secondly, it must be clearly stated that the public must be allowed to live in accordance with the law, and law enforcement is acting within their legal rights to protect national interests.”

Samdech Thipadei continued, “In certain instances, illegal fishing equipment is being used, and our forces must act decisively. There have even been attempts to shoot at or harm our officers. The armed forces have every right to defend themselves. We do not condone violence against the public, but if there are attempts to endanger or attack our officers, they have the right to respond in self-defence. I am making this clear: civilians do not carry firearms, and those who are violating the law must not attempt to shoot at the military or use boats to ram and sink them in the middle of the river.”

At the same time, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also referred to previous incidents, including gunfire exchanges between poachers and park rangers in the Sre Pok Wildlife Sanctuary in Mondulkiri Province. According to the Ministry of Environment, in 2018, such an encounter resulted in the deaths of three park rangers.

On this occasion, Samdech Thipadei reaffirmed the Royal Government’s commitment to enforcing the strict protection of Cambodia’s natural resources, including forest lands and fish stocks in the Tonle Sap. He also announced a forthcoming revision of laws concerning fishing equipment and practices.

Samdech Thipadei has urged collective efforts to protect Cambodia’s national fish resources by putting an end to illegal fishing practices.

Meanwhile, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also noted that while the use of natural resources such as sand and rocks is sometimes necessary to support national development, their extraction must be strictly regulated and limited to ensure sustainable and responsible development.
=FRESH NEWS