Cambodia Steps Up Patrols in Prey Lang Sanctuary, Records 178 Environmental Crimes

PHNOM PENH, May 4, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s environment ministry says intensified patrols in Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary uncovered 178 natural resource offences in the first four months of the year, underscoring efforts to curb illegal logging and land encroachment.

Officials said rangers, provincial departments and local communities carried out 853 patrols across Kampong Thom, Preah Vihear, Stung Treng and Kratie provinces between January and April.

The operations targeted activities ranging from forest clearing and land grabbing to wildlife hunting and small‑scale mining.

Of the cases recorded, 132 involved forest clearing and land grabbing, 25 illegal logging and 18 wildlife hunting. Smaller numbers were linked to mining and fishing.

Authorities said 83 case files had been sent to court, involving 13 suspects, while confiscated equipment including chainsaws, vehicles and homemade firearms was retained for legal proceedings.

Across Cambodia’s protected areas more broadly, rangers conducted more than 4,000 patrols during the same period, leading to 718 cases of natural resource crimes.

Seized items included chainsaws, vehicles and traps, while several improvised weapons were dismantled.

Environment ministry spokesman Khvay Atitya said the results reflected cooperation among rangers, provincial authorities and local communities.

He stressed that enforcement would continue under environmental laws, supported by government and development partners.

The ministry has also highlighted initiatives aimed at improving local livelihoods through eco‑tourism and sustainable development, positioning conservation as both a legal obligation and a driver of community resilience.