The last week of August was marked by the murders of two police officers in two separate incidents – two rare but regrettable occurrences that have drawn both concern and reflection, both from within law enforcement circles and the wider community.

On August 29, at approximately 4.00pm, Lieutenant Sao Reaksa, an officer from the Boeung Keng Kang II Administrative Police Station, was fatally stabbed during a confrontation that was captured in a video clip and widely shared on social media. 

The footage shows the suspect stabbing the officer before being shot dead by other police officers on the scene.

This was the second killing of a police officer within the span of just three days, highlighting the risks that law enforcement officers face as they carry out their duties.

Just two days prior, on August 27, at around 10.00pm, Kong Vuthy, a 36-year-old officer from the National Police’s intervention unit, lost his life in an incident in the capital’s Dangkor district.

The officer was at the wheel of a Mercedes that was hit by another car. The occupants of the other vehicle opened fire on his car, resulting in his death and serious injuries to an unnamed Chinese national who was a passenger in the vehicle.

The two incidents have prompted strong responses from government officials and the public, leading to a broader discussion about the safety of police officers. 

Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his condolences in an August 29 letter to the family of Lieutenant Sao Reaksa, acknowledging their profound loss. 

“At this sad time, my wife and I would like to extend our condolences to you and your family, as well as to all the leaders of the National Police,” he wrote, offering his support to those affected by the tragedy.

On the morning of August 30, Minister of Interior Sar Sokha led a high-level delegation to pay their respects to the slain officer’s family.

The deaths of the two officers have spurred a renewed focus on the conditions under which police officers operate and the necessity for vigilance in potentially dangerous situations.

Interior ministry spokesman Touch Sokhak expressed his sorrow over these tragic events but emphasised that such incidents, while rare, are controllable and should not be cause for widespread fear. 

“There are not many such cases, but this does not mean that we can ignore them,” he explained. 

He stressed that the situation remains under control and does not signify a breakdown of order. 

Sokhak also highlighted how the public should be reassured by the steps being taken to maintain safety and security.

Reflecting on the challenges faced by officers, Sokhak pointed out that some law enforcement personnel might hesitate to use lethal force in certain situations, especially when dealing with individuals who are not in control of their actions, such as those under the influence of drugs. 

He noted that Reaksa may have refrained from shooting the suspect immediately, possibly out of concern for the suspect's lack of awareness due to his drug-addled mind.

The ministry continues to emphasise the importance of professional training for police officers, including crime suppression, prevention, intervention and the protection of citizens, he explained, adding that despite the rarity of such incidents, the ministry is committed to ensuring that officers are well-prepared to handle various threats.

This tragic incident recalls a previous incident that took place in April 2021, where a police officer in Sen Sok district shot and killed a knife-wielding man during a confrontation. 

The officer involved, Phoeun Phirak, was initially charged, but later released following a public outcry and support from legal advocates.