Ratanakkiri's deputy provincial governor called local authorities and community representatives last week to explain the alleged deforestation of eight hectares of preserved land around the Ou’Sinlair waterfall.

Situated in Lumphat district, Ou’Sinlair is a popular eco-tourism destination in the province. But logging over the years has destroyed some of its natural beauty.

Mun Keang, the resort’s director, said yesterday that Mom Saveoun, Ratanakkiri deputy provincial governor, sent accusatory letters to him, villagers and local authorities, demanding that they account for the deforestation, which has been ongoing since 2008.

He didn’t deny that land had been cleared, but said the act took place outside of the Ou’Sinlair attraction.

Kong Srun, Lumphat district governor, said the problem was caused by confusion between what land the locals had set aside for community purposes and what was protected.

Provincial officials said the case was still being investigated.