Authorities in at least 3 provinces threatened local residents not to sign a petition by civil societies for the release of political and human rights activists detained in Prey Sar prison.
Cambodia Center for Human Rights (CCHR) director Kem Sokha, CCHR acting director Pa Nguon Teang, Community Legal Education Center (CLEC) director Yeng Virak, Beehive 105 FM Radio station owner Mam Sonando, and Cambodia Independent Teachers Association director Rong Chhun were detained for allegedly defaming the government.
CCHR investigation official Chhim Savudh in Takeo province quotes the local as saying the authorities warn them that if they sign the petition, they should be very careful.