Local NGO Activist Intimidated in Ratanakiri

On March 29, 2009 a local right activist, named Khum Samrith, 37, living in Kok commune, Veunsai district, Ratanakiri was intimidated by the first deputy commune councilor, Huy Bouty, regarding his previous activities, which he thought affected the interest the councilor.

That day of the event, Mr. Huy Bouty was traveling pass and stopped in front of Mr. Khum Samrith’s house. He first uttered “Don’t be too strong. You sell gasoline. Your house may be on fire.” He added, “You, Strong! If you’re Strong, Air it!”

Mr. Pen Bunna, the provincial coordinator of ADHOC, received a complaint from Khum Samrith. He asserted that Mr. Khum Samrith used to investigate the activity of illegal logging and participated in providing training to ethnic minority group to know about their rights; especially, tenure rights over land grabbing.

Mr. Pen Bunna said that after that Mr. Ly Noeun, second deputy councilor conciliated by asking Huy Bouty to apologize to Khum Samrith to end the case.