The National Police on Monday said it has released prevention measures to enhance security and combat human trafficking in Cambodia by organising professional teams and orchestrating cooperation between ministries and international outfits.

The measures were announced at a meeting presided over by National Police chief Neth Savoeun on Monday.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, National Police spokesman Chhay Kim Khoeun said the measures on safety, security and public order will improve the work of combating human trafficking.

“This meeting focused on collecting information and dividing specific responsibilities to teams to independently manage situations related to security and safety as well as the fight against human trafficking.”

Kim Khoeun said Savoeun prioritised collecting forces according to specific situations to be able to take measures effectively to help victims.

Regarding the US’s evaluation of Cambodia’s human trafficking situation, Kim Khoeun said: “The US evaluates without asking us. The important thing for us is rescuing victims who are trapped by human traffickers,” he said.

The US might not have collected all data about Cambodia or it did not evaluate the situation accurately, he said.

He added the US did not reveal how it evaluated Cambodia and the Kingdom’s image was affected.

In June, the US Department of State released its 2020 report on the global human trafficking situation and marked Cambodia as a Tier 2 country which does not meet the minimum standards for eliminating human trafficking.

The National Police and the law enforcement forces have a clear commitment to fight against human trafficking, said Kim Khoeun.

LICADHO’s monitoring manager Am Sam Ath said the issue of human trafficking in Cambodia remains a concern.

“If the government puts more effort this year, we will lower to level three. This issue is a reflection for the government, especially relevant parties to improve the protection of victims from human trafficking in Cambodia,” he said.