Kampong Thom Governor Orders Crackdown on Illegal Logging in Prey Lang Forest

KAMPONG THOM, Cambodia, May 10, 2026 (KPT) — Authorities in Kampong Thom province have ordered intensified measures against illegal logging in the Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary, following reports of recent forest clearance inside the protected area, officials said Sunday.

Provincial Governor Nuon Pharat instructed relevant agencies to strengthen patrols, increase surveillance, and take immediate legal action against individuals involved in forest crimes.

During an inspection visit to Sochit commune in Sandan district, near Kratie province’s Sambo district, Pharat expressed concern over the loss of about five to six hectares of forest believed to have been cleared during the Khmer New Year holiday period.

He ordered security forces and environmental officials to coordinate joint operations from a forward command post to prevent further encroachment and ensure offenders are arrested and prosecuted.

“Authorities must act without exception and in accordance with the law,” he said, calling for stronger enforcement against what he described as continued illegal exploitation of natural resources.

The governor also directed the provincial Department of Environment to issue confiscation orders for the affected land, declare it state property, and prepare legal case files for submission to the courts.

He urged investigations to identify those responsible and called for strict penalties, while offering incentives for information leading to arrests.

Military and security officials, including Major General Som Sun, pledged to fully implement the directive in cooperation with environmental authorities and armed forces units deployed in the area.

Prey Lang, one of Cambodia’s largest remaining lowland evergreen forests, has long been the focus of conservation efforts amid persistent concerns over illegal logging and land encroachment.