Oddar Meanchey: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Sar Sokha, announced that during a nationwide operation to search prison cells, authorities discovered weapons, drugs, sharp razors, and other contraband materials.

Mr. Sar Sokha made these remarks at the inauguration ceremony of Oddar Meanchey Provincial Governor Mean Chanyada on the morning of July 8, 2024, at Oddar Meanchey Provincial Hall. He emphasized that the purpose of the prison searches was to enhance security in accordance with national and international laws, ensuring that the rights of detainees were not violated, despite claims from some civil society groups.

The Minister of Interior's statement addressed concerns from civil society and analysts who criticized the ministry's security measures as potential infringements on detainees' rights.

Referring to past incidents where inmates used mobile phones to coordinate drug trafficking activities with accomplices outside, Mr. Sar Sokha provided general guidelines to the General Department of Prisons, capital and provincial governors, prison directors, and all correctional centers. He urged them to focus on strengthening prison security, strictly controlling the import of food and other materials, and improving the cleanliness and conduct of prison officials.