Banteay Meanchey: Cambodian authorities returned a Thai national, Ekkalak Pheanou, to Thailand on January 11, 2025, following his arrest in connection with the murder of Lim Kimya, a former opposition party member. The handover occurred at the Poipet International Border, facilitated by Mr. Dy Vichea, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Cambodian National Police, on behalf of Mr. Sar Thet, Commissioner-General of the Cambodian National Police.

Present for the transfer on the Thai side was Mr. Yenthuam Somprasong, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Thai National Police. The event was attended by numerous journalists from both Cambodia and Thailand, who captured photos and conducted interviews.

Ekkalak Pheanou, a 41-year-old former military sailor, allegedly shot and killed Lim Kimya on January 7, 2025, at approximately 5:45 PM at 13 Hang Street, Burin Nived Vihear Subdistrict, Preah Nakorn District, Bangkok. Following the shooting, Pheanou fled to Cambodia. On January 8, Cambodian police apprehended him in Battambang Province after receiving a request for cooperation from Royal Thai Police.

According to the National Police spokesman, this extradition was part of an ongoing collaboration between Cambodian and Thai authorities. The investigation into the murder is being closely monitored by Thai authorities, with the French Embassy in Cambodia expressing condolences to Lim's family and providing consular support.

Reports indicate that after the murder, Pheanou attempted to escape to the Cambodian border. Cambodian authorities successfully located and arrested him at Prey Svay Village, Prey Svay Commune, Maung Russey District, Battambang Province, at 1:50 PM on January 8, 2025. The Cambodian National Police conducted a thorough investigation following initial cooperation from Thai law enforcement.