The Cambodian Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC), a coalition of 17 local NGOs, urges an immediate and thorough investigation into the murder of Mr. Chhuor Chhetharith, editor and political analyst of Ta Prohm radio station owned by FUNCINPEC, between 8:10- 8:30 AM this morning by two unidentified men wearing baseball hats and riding a C 125 black Honda motorcycle.

According to information collected by NGO workers, the 37 year old victim was fatally shot in the back of the neck while getting out of his car and entering the radio station office. According to witnesses, the two unidentified suspects were seen riding around the radio station several times earlier in the morning and then approached the victim on their motorcycle and shot the victim with a handgun.

It appears that this killing was a strong message to the media in Cambodia to repress freedom of expression guaranteed by the Constitution of Cambodia and international covenants and treaties adhered by Cambodia. “This violent act is yet another indicator that Cambodia is ruled by lawlessness”, said Dr. Kek Galabru, President of LICADHO.

CHRAC wishes to express its sincere condolences to the victim’s family and urges relevant Cambodian government authorities to investigate this murder immediately and render justice to the memory of the victim and to the victim’s family which includes a wife and two children.

For more information, please contact:
▪ Dr. Kek Galabru, Chairperson of CHRAC and President of LICADHO, at 012 802 506
▪ Mr. Thun Saray, President of ADHOC, at 016 880 509
▪ Mr. Sok Sam Oeun, Executive Director of CDP at 012 901 199

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