Chinese, Cambodian suspects held over concrete murders

Phnom Penh police have arrested four men — two Chinese nationals and two Cambodians — after the discovery of two murder victims buried beneath concrete in the capital.

The case centres on the deaths of Tang Simeng, a 35‑year‑old transgender karaoke singer, and Em Kimsrun, a 38‑year‑old taxi driver. Investigators believe Simeng was killed first at a guesthouse in Chbar Ampov on 23 May, with Kimsrun murdered shortly afterwards when he stumbled upon her body.

Police say the suspects bound the victims’ hands and feet before beating and killing them. The bodies were then transported to a warehouse in Chroy Changvar district, placed in a pit and covered with concrete. Kimsrun’s taxi was later found abandoned at a landfill site.

The Chinese suspects were named as Yu Weiming, 27, a security company manager, and Wang Yen Long, 31, a bodyguard. Both were reportedly employed by a businessman identified as Lin Weida. The Cambodian suspects, aged 27 and 41, have not yet been publicly named.

Evidence seized includes a wooden stick, an axe, electrical wires and a mobile phone. Police said the four men confessed during questioning and led officers to the burial site. Autopsies confirmed Simeng died from knife wounds, while Kimsrun suffered a fatal leg injury.

Authorities are now pursuing several additional accomplices believed to be at large. The suspects have been transferred to the municipal criminal investigation unit for legal proceedings.

The brutality of the murders and the attempt to entomb the victims under concrete has shocked Phnom Penh, highlighting concerns over organised crime and the vulnerability of migrant and marginalised communities.

-2026-06-04