Phnom Penh: In a decisive response to escalating gang violence, the court has arrested more than 3,300 gang members in what is being hailed as a groundbreaking crackdown. This sweeping campaign, ignited by a bold order from Prime Minister Hun Manet on May 23, 2024, aims to restore safety and order across the nation, which has been shaken by rampant gang activity.

“Preventing and suppressing gangs in Cambodia is a task that the Royal Government has taken seriously,” declared Mr. Chin Malin, Permenent Secretary of State for Justice and spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, during a press conference on December 25, 2024. He emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the well-being of citizens amid rising concerns about public safety.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, the government has identified security as the fourth key measure among five critical strategies aimed at promoting safe villages and communities. The relentless crackdown comes in the wake of alarming statistics, with 2,115 gang-related cases reported in just over seven months this year, predominantly in the capital, Phnom Penh, where violence has surged.

Chin Malin noted significant progress since the crackdown began. “In the first month of the Prime Minister’s strict order, we saw 629 cases; now this figure has dropped to just 342 cases,” he stated, indicating a dramatic reduction in gang-related incidents. “Initially, there were 10 to 20 cases reported daily; now we’re down to about 4 to 5 cases per day, with some days experiencing almost no incidents at all.”

Despite these encouraging trends, Chin Malin cautioned that certain violent gang activities, particularly in areas like Takeo province, have recently resurfaced and must be addressed without exception. “We must remain vigilant as we continue this crucial work,” he said.

Mr. Keng Somarith, Secretary of State for Justice, head of the Secretariat of the Ministry of Justice’s Strategic Command, presented additional compelling statistics. “In the past 212 days, the courts have processed a total of  720 gang-related cases, with an impressive 99.3 percent resolution rate,” he explained. He confirmed that 715 of those cases have already been handled, with only 0.7 percent pending—primarily due to new filings. “In total, 3,300 individuals have been arrested, reinforcing our commitment to tackling this issue head-on,” he added.

Keng Somarith also identified Phnom Penh, Kampong Speu, and Takeo as the current hotspots for gang activity, while Stung Treng stands out as a model province with no reported gang cases. “Areas like Kep, Pailin, and Preah Vihear have also seen minimal gang activity,” he noted, emphasizing the government's success in certain regions.

As for the legal proceedings, Keng Somarith disclosed that out of  599 case  brought to trial, 354 have been processed, resulting in convictions for 1,459 individuals. He reiterated the importance of thorough investigations, stating that 796 cases are still pending further inquiry to gather relevant evidence and identify suspects.

Mr. Seng Dina, also present at the press conference, reiterated the government's unwavering resolve. “Prisons and detention centers are always ready to welcome those who continue to act aggressively without fearing the law,” he declared. “Any actions that threaten public security will be dealt with through the strictest legal measures.”

Chin Malin and Seng Dina both urged guardians to monitor their children's activities closely, emphasizing the risks associated with gang involvement. “We need parents to educate and counsel their children against the dangers of gang life, as these paths lead to violence that can jeopardize their lives and the safety of our communities,” Chin Malin warned.