Phnom Penh: The Ministry of Health and the Phnom Penh Capital Administration have launched a crackdown on high-risk businesses that are operating illegally. Phnom Penh Deputy Governor, Mr. Keut Chhe, says officials have received information about some businesses that have reopened, despite the administrative measure ordering their closure until at least 23 July. He says just last week, authorities closed a karaoke club in Sen Sok. The capital administration is now calling on everyone to cooperate, otherwise another lockdown could be enforced.

Apart from karaoke clubs, there are also reports of gyms continuing to operate despite the stern warnings from the Health Ministry and World Health Organisation about the further spread of Covid-19. Phnom Penh deputy governor, Mr. Keut Chhe, says these businessowners are not helping and are in fact, making the 20 February community outbreak even more difficult to end.

“Business owners who secretly open their karaoke shops and other entertainment clubs are clearly in violation of administrative measures. If they get apprehended, they will not be allowed to open their business ever again. The business owner’s name will be blacklisted from doing any further business in the country. The reopening of Karaoke clubs is considered high-risk for spreading Covid-19 and shall be submitted to the court for legal action.”

He has urged people to cooperate with the Ministry of Health’s guidelines, saying that everyone needs to take them seriously. Phnom Penh Governor, Mr. Khoung Sreng has repeatedly warned in recent weeks that if not, another lockdown for the capital will be ordered. City Hall is asking members of the public to report high-risk businesses that have reopened their doors.