The defense team for alleged former Khmer Rouge district secretary Im Chaem faces uncertainty after the death of her international co-lawyer, John RWD Jones.

The defense support section of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Court of Cambodia (ECCC) announced yesterday it was “deeply saddened” by the tragic news of Jones’ passing at the age of 48.

The cause of death was not immediately available.

Jones had practised at all the major international courts and tribunals and represented Saif Gaddafi (son of Muammar Gaddafi) before taking on Im Chaem as a client in Case 004/01, in which she is accused of crimes against humanity.

“John was an inspiring and brilliant lawyer,” a statement on the ECCC website reads. “He was admired for his professionalism, sincerity, and humility by all in the field. John will be sorely missed.”

Bit Seanglim, Im Chaem’s national lawyer and Jones’ colleague, said he could not comment on the defence team’s future direction so soon after Jones’ death.

“At this time, we feel deeply we cannot make any other statement,” he said.