We strongly condemn the forced eviction of Dey Krahorm residents which began at 6 a.m. on Saturday 24 January, 2009. This was carried out by over 300 police officers and up to 500 breakers hired by the private company 7NG. It is yet another example of the violent evictions taking place across Cambodia which are in danger of destabilizing the country.

Today's eviction was marked by excessive use of force endangering the lives of Dey Krahorm residents, and resulting in over 18 injuries - 5 of which were serious. It also saw the systematic destruction of private property, while the police and breakers hired by 7NG blocked attempts by human rights observers and the press to monitor and report on the event.

Further, the Dey Krahorm forced eviction resulted from an improper land transaction between so‐called "community representatives" and 7NG. The forced eviction therefore had no proper or clear legal basis, and has violated the possession rights of Dey Krahorm residents which are guaranteed by the Constitution of Cambodia and Land Law 2001.

We urge the government to ensure that:

- Affected families are given immediate humanitarian assistance, including adequate food, water, shelter, sanitation, and medical care;

- Affected families are given just and fair compensation for the loss of their property;

- The illegal activities surrounding the eviction are properly investigated and those responsible are held accountable; and

- The trend of aggressive private interests overriding human rights is immediately stopped.

PDF: Download full statement in English - Download full statement in Khmer