Phnom Penh: Kampong Thom has become the latest province in Cambodia to announce a ban on alcohol sales. In recent weeks, similar bans have been announced in Kep, Kampot and Siem Reap. Unlike Siem Reap’s ban, which is for an indefinite period, Kampong Thom’s has been announced for 14 days, effective from Sunday 19 June, through Friday 2 July.

The Provisional Administration made the announcement on Thursday. Along with alcohol, all related gatherings have also been temporarily banned, as the province fights a rapid rise in Covid-19 infections. Its total case count is approaching 450.

As with the bans in other provinces, all shops, hotels, resorts, guesthouses and markets are prohibited from selling alcohol or serving alcoholic drinks to their customers and guests. Residents of the province are also not allowed to gather to drink alcohol. Any business or individual caught flouting the ban will face legal action.