Two men were arrested for causing two separate accidental wildfires which threatened homes in Kandal province. Ang Snoul district administration
Two men were arrested after their attempts to harness the power of flames in Kandal province led to two separate uncontrolled wildfires.
The authorities in Ang Snoul district announced that the two were arrested after two separate fires broke out on February 9.
In the first case, a 31-year-old was arrested for starting a fire that spread from burning rice stubble, causing a wildfire in Krang Makak commune ‘s Prey Popel village.
In the second case, a 35-year-old was arrested for a trash fire which burnt out of control in an empty plot of land in Bek Chan commune’s Andoung village.
“Despite education and warnings, the law must take its course. The local authorities acted responsibly by arresting two men who were involved in starting fires that nearly spread of fires to citizens' homes,” explained the district administration.
However, district police Chief Mean Samnang, said on Tuesday, February 11, that the two men had been reprimanded, then signed good behaviour contracts and been allowed to return home.
The district administration has appealed to the public to cease activities such as burning trash, grass or rice stubble, as they could lead to danger and environmental damage.
A notice from the Ministry of Environment regarding the prevention and control of forest fires during the dry season stated that anyone who recklessly causes forest fires could face imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of up to 100 million riel ($25,000).
Additionally, anyone who intentionally causes a wildfire in a protected area will be charged with a third-grade natural resource crime, which carries a possible prison sentence of five to ten years.
Following concerns over deteriorating air quality in some provinces, provincial authorities, especially the environment departments, have advised against burning trash or other waste at home or in public places.
The ministry also issued an update on air quality in Cambodia, stating that from 6pm on February 10 to 6am on February 11, the national average of fine particulate matter was 46.61 µg/m3, which is below the “good” limit of 50 µg/m3.
However, Pursat and Koh Kong were marked orange, with “moderate” levels. Banteay Meanchey, Kandal, Preah Vihear, Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk, Stung Treng and Pailin were yellow, indicating “light air pollution”.
Battambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Speu, Kampong Thom, Phnom Penh, Takeo and Kep wre green, signalling “good” air quality, while Kampong Chhnang, Kampot, Svay Rieng, Kratie, Prey Veng, Ratanakiri, Oddar Meanchey, Mondulkiri and Tbong Khmum were blue, with “excellent” air quality.
