Human remains that an opposition activist claims are those of missing teen Khim Saphath, who disappeared after a crackdown on Veng Sreng Boulevard on January 3, will be brought to the Cambodia National Rescue Party’s headquarters in the capital today.

Although no tests have been carried out, Dim Keang, a CNRP activist, believes remains found in Kampong Speu province’s Samraong Torng district on Saturday are those of the 16-year-old.

“If the body was disposed of by a member of the family or a soldier they would not burn it like this,” he said.

The remains – mostly consisting of bones, including a skull – were being kept in the home of Teang Sien, a CNRP provincial councillor, who, while suspicious, would not speculate on whose remains they were.

Saphath was last seen with blood pouring from his chest during the deadly crackdown.

Nuth Romduol, a CNRP lawmaker-elect in Kampong Speu, said locals called him on January 4, saying that the night before they had seen a truck travelling to where the remains were discovered at Mreas Prov Mountain, followed by the glow of burning in the distance, adding that the remains were found close to military barracks.

Police questioned how the activist could claim to have discovered Saphath’s remains without examining them.

Kheng Tito, military police spokesman, said a forensic examination must take place to identify the remains.

“Only police can do the testing,” he said.