Phnom Penh (FN), March 5 - After completing a full-day inquiry in Trapaing Phlong prison, Tbong Khmum province, the court on Monday has ordered to extend the detention of Kem Sokha, former opposition party president, for six months awaiting for further legal procedures, according to a senior court official on Monday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Sam Sokong, one of five lawyers, said that this week, lawyers will file a complaint to Appeal Court against this decision.

"For those who was charged with crimes, a temporary detention may not exceed six months. However, at the expiration of the detention period, the investigating judge may delay the detention of six months with a reasonable and clear reasons. Investigating Judges can only extend temporary detention twice", according to Article 208 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Kem Sokha was imprisoned in 2016 for public defamation and in 2016 the court sentenced him to five months imprisonment and a fine of $200 for not appearing to the court. The premier has requested for the King’s pardons to release Kem Sokha for these two times.

Kem Sokha once again was arrested at his house at 00:35 am on September 3, 2017 by justice police in his house located in Toul Kok, Phnom Penh. The arrest was made when Sokha appeared in a video to initiate plans to topple the government. He is facing a penalty of 15 to 30 years in prison based on article 443 of the Criminal Code.
=FRESH NEWS