Two Arrested for Killing Officer in Drug Crackdown

Cambodian police have arrested two suspects in connection with the fatal shooting of a senior officer during a drug operation in Kampong Thom province last week.

Lieutenant Colonel Huon Saway was killed and Lieutenant Colonel Tim Channy seriously injured when gunmen opened fire on police at 3:10 p.m. on 23 October in Bek Chan village, Andong Por commune. The attackers, armed with an AK-47, fled the scene on a motorbike heading toward Chamkar Leu district.

Following a nationwide manhunt ordered by General Sar Thet, Commissioner-General of the National Police, the suspects were tracked down and arrested on 27 October in Toul Pong village, Poipet city. The operation involved coordinated efforts between the Criminal Police Department and provincial police units.

The arrested men were identified as Thorn Dina, 35, the alleged shooter, and Thorn Sieng Hai, 29, who reportedly drove the getaway vehicle.

In a separate incident on 26 October, a suspected drug trafficker attempted to escape arrest by leaping into a lake in Kandal province. Va Sidet, 30, was apprehended by Royal Military Police after officers found 10 packets of methamphetamine—one on his person and nine hidden in a blue plastic box.

Authorities say the arrest followed a public tip-off, prompting a swift response from six officers. Despite the suspect’s attempt to flee, he was captured and taken into custody.

Both cases highlight the growing risks faced by law enforcement during Cambodia’s ongoing crackdown on drug-related crime. Investigations are continuing.

-2025-10-28