Charges Dropped against the Accused of a Killing Case in Kbal Spean Village
Published on 17 August 2005; Cambodia Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC)
The Cambodian Human Rights Action Committee (CHRAC), a coalition of 18 NGOs, would like to express its dissatisfaction with the Battambang Provincial Court for dropping charges against 128 police, military police and civilians accused of killing five villagers and injuring eight others during a forced eviction on March 21, 2005 in Kbal Spean Village, Poipet Commune, O' Chrov District, Banteay Meanchey Province. Victims sustained extensive property damage during the eviction.
CHRAC views the killing of five people and injury of eight others without any authorities taking responsibility to be a serious injustice. CHRAC believes the court is not acting independently on this case, and their action represents a dangerous precedent.
CHRAC is concerned that no authorities have taken responsibility for the violent incident and the courts appear to be acting without independence, thus obscuring crimes committed by authorities and the inadequate investigation into the incident that followed. This represents a further violation of the rights of victims and erodes their confidence in both the court and in the authorities to whom they turn for protection, justice and rule of law.
CHRAC also views the deaths and injuries as proof of excessive use of force. People responsible for the incident should be named and held accountable for the incident. Even if the courts decide there is not adequate evidence to file charges against the accused, the authorities must still provide a clear explanation for the use of force to the victims and their families.
CHRAC would like to again request authorities to cooperate further in the investigation, arrest perpetrators and punish those responsible. This would set a proper precedent for future cases and demonstrate the government’s willingness to enforce the law in line with democratic principles.
For more information, please contact:
▪ Mr. Sok Sam Oeun Chairman of CHRAC and CDP Tel: 012 901 199
▪ Mr. Thun Saray President of ADHOC Tel: 016 880 509
▪ Dr. Kek Galabru President of LICADHO Tel: 012 803 174
▪ Mr. Yong Kim Eng President of KYA Tel: 016 828 211
▪ Mrs. Nay Dina Executive Director Tel: 011 924 286
