Phnom Penh gang clash leaves one dead, 14 youths charged

KT

Fourteen youths have been charged in connection with a violent gang clash on the outskirts of Phnom Penh that left one teenager dead and two others seriously injured. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of 19 October, involved rival groups Chhoukwa 1 (CV1) and Phnom Basit, and has reignited concerns about youth violence in the capital.

According to Prek Pnov District Police Deputy Chief Major Nhem Chantha, the two gangs rode seven motorbikes into Kork Roka commune, allegedly seeking revenge for a previous altercation. Around 2.40am, they spotted three young men on a motorcycle near Wat Chum Pagoda and mistook them for members of a rival gang. The group gave chase and attacked the victims with cleavers and steel pipes.

One youth died after falling from his motorbike during the assault, while two others sustained serious injuries. The attackers then damaged the victims’ vehicle before fleeing the scene. Police later arrested seven members of the Chhoukwa 1 gang on 11 November. Seven others from the Phnom Basit group remain at large.

All fourteen suspects have been charged by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court with intentional violence, aggravated theft, and property damage under Articles 218, 353, 357 and 411 of the Cambodian Criminal Code. If convicted, they face prison sentences of up to 15 years.

The case has drawn attention to the growing problem of youth gang activity in Phnom Penh’s outer districts, where loosely organised groups often clash over territory, reputation, or personal disputes. Police say they are stepping up patrols and community outreach to prevent further violence.

“This was not a random act,” said Major Chantha. “It was a targeted attack driven by retaliation. We are working to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects.”

The victim’s identity has not been publicly released, but local reports suggest he was not affiliated with either gang. His death has sparked calls for stronger intervention and youth support programmes to address the root causes of gang involvement.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging parents, schools, and community leaders to remain vigilant and to report signs of gang activity. The case serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of youth violence — and the urgent need to curb it.

-2025-11-14