The National Police identified 121 examples of antisocial behaviour during the Kan Ben and Pchum Ben festivals, from September 8 to 23. Most were referred to court for legal action before being sent to detention centres or rehabilitation institutions, according to Touch Sokhak, deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior.
Many of the cases involved young men racing their motorcycles or performing dangerous stunts on public roads, as well as youth gang activity.
On September 25, Sokhak explained that the cases occurred in Phnom Penh, Kandal, Takeo, Kampong Speu, Svay Rieng, Kratie, Pursat, Tbong Khmum, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Ratanakkiri.
He noted that police officers did not hesitate to act against misbehaving youths, even if they were busy with other duties during the holiday period.
In addition, authorities in Battambang province confiscated three motorcycles from seven youths on September 24 in Banan and Thma Koul districts. The provincial police commissioner reported that the motorcycles were impounded for a three-month period, while the youths were counselled, and their parents tasked with taking them home for “further education”.
Under the instructions of Prime Minister Hun Manet and the direction of Minister of Interior Sar Sokha, as well as the leadership of the National Police, the provincial and capital commissariats have been actively tackling the problem of delinquent youth. This is carried out under the principle: “One delinquent, one crackdown”, without exception, added Sokhak.
