Cambodian Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC) is very concerned with the common practice of local fire fighters demanding financial payments before extinguishing fires in local communities as recently reported in the fire which happened on August 9 at the Srah Chak commune in Daun Penh district.The fire resulted in the deaths of two young boys and property damage for at least 96 families. It has been reported that although fire fighters arrived at the scene promptly; allegedly some fire fighters demanded thousands of dollars to extinguish the area and properties consumed by the fire.

"Tragically, this is not an unusual incident and this terrible practice must stop immediately. The people have a fundamental right to services such as fire and police protection without having to pay bribes”, says Thun Saray, Chairperson of CHRAC.

The CHRAC urges relevant government authorities at the local and municipal level to investigate these allegations and push for criminal charges to be filed against fire fighters who are engaged in corrupt practices. Government and prosecutors must become involved in this process to resolve the matter and ensure the protection for victims of fires in the future.

For more information, please contact:
▪ Dr. Kek Galabru, President of LICADHO at 012 802 506

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