Chhoeung Chheng, a reporter for the online outlet Kampuchea Aphivath, was shot in the stomach on December 4 while investigating illegal logging. RSF
The fatal shooting of journalist Chhoeung Chheng, 63, has sparked calls for justice amid conflicting claims of personal conflict.
Chheng, who succumbed to his injuries on December 7, was attacked while reporting on illegal deforestation in Cambodia’s northwest.
A reporter for the online outlet Kampuchea Aphivath, he was shot in the abdomen on December 4 while investigating illegal logging in the Boeung Per nature reserve in Siem Reap province.
Despite being rushed to a local hospital, he passed away two days later from severe internal injuries.
Authorities have arrested a suspect who, according to local media, admitted to shooting Chheng after the journalist allegedly photographed the suspect transporting illegally logged timber.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned the killing as an attack on press freedom.
“This murder is appalling and demands a strong response. We call on Cambodian authorities to ensure that all parties responsible for the attack are severely punished,” said Cédric Alviani, RSF’s Asia-Pacific bureau director.
“We also urge the Cambodian government to take concrete actions to end violence against journalists,” he added.
While RSF emphasised Chheng’s role as an investigative journalist, the Siem Reap provincial administration labelled the incident the result of a “personal dispute”.
According to a statement from the provincial government, the suspect confessed to shooting Chheng due to a conflict involving a single stolen bullet.
“The Provincial Police Commissioner is finalising the case for court proceedings,” the statement added.
The Ministry of Information expressed its condolences, with spokesman Tep Asnarith reiterating the government’s commitment to press freedom while urging journalists to adhere to ethical standards.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Chhoeung Chheng,” Asnarith said, adding, “The ministry remains committed to fostering a safe environment for journalists.”
Asnarith urged all journalists to adhere strictly to the Code of Ethics for Journalists, emphasising the importance of conducting their work within the bounds of the law.
He cautioned against engaging in illegal acts such as extortion or other activities that deviate from professional standards.
The murder of Chheng highlights the dangers faced by journalists covering environmental issues in Cambodia.
RSF noted that reporters investigating illegal deforestation frequently encounter violence, citing the 2014 murder of Taing Try under similar circumstances.
Cambodia now ranks 151st out of 180 countries in RSF’s 2024 World Press Freedom Index, categorized as having “very serious” threats to press freedom.
