PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered officials to return six peacocks that were seized from residents of Boribo district in Kampong Chhnang province as soon as possible, as he did not agree with their decision to confiscate the animals.

In an audio message sent through his Telegram Channel on Tuesday, 28 February 2023, Prime Minister Hun Sen said that breeders of these endangered peacocks should be encouraged, hence, he ordered for the seized peacocks to be returned to their owners immediately.

"Relevant officials in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries must receive this order and transport the animals back to their homes as soon as possible," he said. "This order has been given on the 28th and should be implemented immediately without delay.”

The Prime Minister also proposed amending the law regarding the breeding of these animals. He further stated that at his home, he also used to raise peacocks.