Dissatisfied with what they said were excessively high per-vehicle charges demanded by customs officers, numerous freight-truck drivers gathered on the morning of January 8, 2026, outside the Takeo provincial customs office to protest and request mediation over the charges. The office is along National Road 2 in Phsar Takao village, Roka Knong sangkat, Doun Keo city.
Drivers taking part said the customs checkpoint had required them to pay 70,000 riel per truck for months and years, without issuing invoices specifying what service the payment covered, making it difficult for them to earn a profit. They therefore asked the customs officers stationed there to reduce the charge to 30,000–40,000 riel per truck, in line with their income and other expenses.
After the protest attracted considerable surprise and attention among people travelling along National Road 2, customs officials asked the drivers to appoint representatives to negotiate a solution. They also had the gathering disperse and the drivers return home individually to await a resolution later. All the freight transporters expressed hope that the customs leadership and relevant authorities would help resolve their difficulties.
By: Nget Pisan
