A month-long government crackdown on environmental crimes in Pursat province has resulted in the detention of 18 individuals, with five more detained pending further court inquiries. The operation, conducted by a coalition of law enforcement agencies, aimed to address illegal land occupation and environmental degradation in Phnom Kravanh and Veal Veng districts.

Pursat Provincial Governor Khoy Rida stated that nearly 40,000 hectares of illegally occupied land were seized during the operation, and national officials will remain stationed in protected areas until jurisdictional arrangements are made. Reforestation efforts will be implemented in cleared areas, with eventual transfer to sub-national authorities for management.

Those detained face charges under Article 56 and Article 61 of the Law on Natural Protected Areas, with potential prison sentences of five to 10 years and fines ranging from 15 million to 150 million riel. The crackdown follows Prime Minister Hun Manet's directive to enforce forest and natural resource protection measures.

Environment Ministry spokesperson Khvay Atiya emphasized the government's commitment to upholding the law and providing legal support to affected individuals. While human rights NGO Adhoc has not received complaints from Pursat villagers, they stand ready to assist those with legitimate grievances.

However, concerns have been raised regarding the fairness and effectiveness of the operation, particularly in addressing the needs of impoverished communities reliant on land for their livelihoods. Calls have been made for authorities to consider granting social land concessions to those in need, highlighting the importance of equitable land distribution in rural areas.

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