On the night of December 31, police in Cambodia’s Ratanakiri province, together with military police and provincial mines and energy officials, raided the Ngoc mountain area and detained 15 Vietnamese nationals and one Cambodian on suspicion of engaging in gold digging there.
Law-enforcement authorities said the Vietnamese group had been in the area for about a week. After their activities drew attention, a joint team conducted checks and made the arrests.
However, the company employing those involved subsequently said it had lawfully obtained a mineral exploration permit in Ratanakiri. It has lodged an appeal with the relevant authorities, and the case remains under further consideration.
Compiled report by this station
