A suspected thief was beaten to death by villagers in Kandal province’s Kandal Steung district on Wednesday night, while his injured accomplice escaped, according to a police official.

Police said Huoy Loeung, 34, of Takhmao town was cornered after trying to steal a motorbike belonging to one Sa Chorvorn.

The report says that around 4pm Chorvorn parked and locked his bike at a dam in order to check fishing nets. Upon returning, he saw two men trying to steal his ride. Chorvorn then shouted out for help.

While trying to escape, the suspects tried hitting Chorvorn, but ended up falling themselves. Chorvorn then started hitting them with a wooden stick.

One of the thieves managed to ride off on Chorvorn’s motorbike, leaving Loeung and their motorbike behind.

People nearby lashed out at Loeung before police showed up to take him to hospital for his injuries. However, he died on the way.

Men Chanrith, the district police chief in Kandal Steung, said that the bike left behind was confiscated.