Phnom Penh: The Preah Sihanouk Provincial Administrative Unity Command held a crucial meeting focused on reinforcing efforts to combat illegal drugs and gambling activities within the province. Chaired by Kouch Chamroeun, this gathering took place at the Sihanoukville Provincial Hall on the afternoon of Thursday, February 22, 2024, drawing participation from deputy governors, district governors, and directors of relevant departments in Sihanoukville.
The meeting underscored the provincial administration's dedication to eradicating the menace of illegal drugs, aligning with the Royal Government's directives. Emphasizing the gravity of the drug issue, likened to a "wolf" by the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Hun Manet, the campaign now extends beyond police and armed forces to include over 200,000 civil servants and contracted officers nationwide, with regular inspections to curb drug use within the ranks.
Kouch Chamroeun called upon department heads to lead by example, adhering to Regulation No. 01 of the Royal Government set to be implemented on February 26, 2024. This regulation mandates rigorous checks across various departments to ensure compliance and readiness among over 3,000 officers and contract staff for drug testing. Additionally, the focus was placed on taxi and truck drivers, highlighting the potential risks to life and property posed by substance abuse in these professions.
The crackdown on illegal gambling, particularly lottery operations that have proliferated issues within the community, was also a key agenda item. Despite nearly 2,000 gambling sites identified during the 2022 campaign, efforts have since managed to regulate the situation effectively. The Unity Command has been ordered to maintain vigilance, especially against cockfighting and unauthorized lotteries, which not only violate regulations but also impact community well-being and domestic harmony.
The Preah Sihanouk Provincial Unity Command's firm stance on these issues reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding public safety and ensuring the social and economic welfare of its citizens, marking a decisive step towards eradicating illegal drugs and gambling in the province.