Two Journalists Detained in Takeo Over Reporting on Alleged Online Scam

On 12 February 2026, two journalists from different media outlets were arrested and detained by Takeo provincial police after publishing articles related to an alleged online scam building in Takeo province. The journalists—Prom Sophai, a publisher with Penhchet Media and a reporter for Koh Santhepheap in Takeo, and Seang Bunsong, a publisher with Sunday News—were arrested at separate locations and at different times.

Prior to their arrest, both journalists were invited to attend a meeting with local authorities to discuss their reporting. Following the meeting, they were arrested. At the time of arrest, no official summonses or arrest warrants had been issued in connection with the case.

According to a pro-government media outlet, Fresh News, the detentions followed the journalists’ publication of claims alleging the presence of online scam sites in Takeo province. The report stated that the journalists accused the Bati District Governor and the District Police Chief of accepting a USD 5,000 bribe to conceal criminal activities—allegations that authorities have denied as false. Officials further claimed that the dissemination of such information could cause fear among investors.

Both journalists were released on 13 February 2026 after publishing an apology video addressed to Takeo authorities, and the related articles were subsequently removed.

On 16 February 2026, Prom Sophai told CamboJA that accusations of disseminating false information should be addressed under the Press Law rather than through criminal charges.