PM calls for further action on crime, vice

Tuesday, 18 May 2010 15:02 Uong Ratana

Photo by: Uy Nousereimony

A police officer salutes Prime Minister Hun Sen during a ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the founding of the National Police at Chaktomuk Theatre on Monday.

Phnom Penh Post
PRIME Minister Hun Sen has ordered officials to intensify their crackdowns on vice, petty crime and the activities of so-called “gangsters” – youths who flout the law – during an address to police Monday.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the National Police, the premier said that crimes such as rape and robbery require unified action by law enforcement agencies.

“We want the public to have peace both in body and in mind, so that they do not worry about robberies or any attacks,” Hun Sen told an audience of police officials. “From now on, the operation to crack down on these activities must be done together and all at the same time.”

Hun Sen also ordered authorities to increase their efforts to eradicate vice – already the subject of a concerted crackdown – and to curb human trafficking nationwide.

He added that traffic police should work harder to enforce traffic rules without any exceptions in order to reduce road accidents and maintain social order.

General Neth Savoeun, general commissioner for the National Police, said that in the first five months of 2010, police notched up 1,749 cases against young criminals nationwide. He said that 2,442 of those involved have been educated and returned to their parents, and that 454 sent have been charged and sent to court.

“We have strengthened security in all areas, making people feel confidence in themselves, their families and society,” he said Monday.

However, opposition Sam Rainsy Party spokesman Yim Sovann said the efforts to eradicate vice and gangster-like behaviour have been largely ineffective, and that perpetrators rarely face the law because they are able to easily bribe their way out of trouble.

“I see very few perpetrators facing the law, but large numbers are being freed and have been promoted,” he said. “So it could encourage them to commit more crimes without being punished.”