Mondulkiri Police Banned Rights Group from Meeting with Ethnic Minority

On May 23, 2009 around 10 NGOs were banned by local police in Tangtes commune, Pichreada district, Mondulkiri from doing research and meeting with local villagers in 2 villages, Trangtes and Ratek village of the above area. Those 10 NGOs included ADHOC, CCC, World Vision, DPA, NTLP, YRDP, IACT, CED, CLEC and Sor Sor Troung. The objective of the study was to understand the livelihood of that ethnic group and to provide education them on their lives and the rights of ethnic minority throughout seminar, but those NGOs were blocked and dismissed from the place. Mr. Sam Sarin, 48, ADHOC provincial coordinator reported that the police claimed they did not have any document to prove they were allowed.