Cambodia's Ministry of Justice has directed all judicial agencies nationwide to enhance security at court entry and exit points. This directive, issued on 26/11, also emphasizes better coordination with law enforcement, including police, military police, and prison wardens, during the transport of inmates to court.

Ministry of Justice spokesperson Seng Dyna stated that court officials are now required to classify inmates involved in serious or organized crimes to apply appropriate security protocols. He added that this effort needs cooperation from all law enforcement agencies for inmate transport and guarding at courts, as Cambodian courts do not have their own security forces.

These strengthened security measures follow an incident last week at Svay Rieng provincial court, where six inmates escaped after an accomplice provided them with guns to threaten escorting officers. The group was recaptured only after a large-scale manhunt by Cambodian security forces.

Officials identified five Vietnamese and one Cambodian among the six inmates who fled Svay Rieng provincial court on 18/11. They were facing charges related to drug offenses and online gambling.

In response, Takeo provincial court Chief Judge Ngeth Davuth confirmed that his court and the prosecutor's office met last week to re-evaluate security procedures and prevent similar occurrences. Davuth outlined new measures to boost court security, including mandatory identification cards for all civil servants and members of the public attending trials. Court officers must wear uniforms and display their work identification. Additionally, visitors to trials must store personal items like mobile phones and other devices in designated lockers. Prison wardens and police are also required to coordinate closely when bringing inmates to and from court.

The inmates who escaped from Svay Rieng provincial court were arrested on 18/11. Photo: Khmer Times

Kheang Sonadin, spokesperson for the General Department of Prisons, affirmed that his department will collaborate with law enforcement agencies and improve the management and discipline of prison wardens.

Ngoc Anh (According to Khmer Times)