According to confirmation from General Neat Vantha, Director General of the Police Fire Prevention, Extinguishing and Rescue Department, on the morning of October 13, 2026, the number of fire incidents nationwide during the 15 days of the Kan Ben and Pchum Ben festivals in 2026 (from September 27 to October 12) was 19 incidents, a decrease of 10 incidents compared to the same period in 2025 (which saw 29 incidents).
The damage included: 9 houses burned, 1 room, 1 monks’ dining hall, 1 pagoda, and 3 vehicles.
The causes were electrical short circuits in 11 incidents (78.57%), candle and incense fire in 3 incidents (21.43%). One female victim died, with no injuries reported.
During the three major Pchum Ben festival days (October 10–12), 5 fire incidents occurred over the 3-day period (a decrease of 2 incidents compared to 2025, which had 7 incidents) across 5 provinces, including: Battambang (1 incident), Kampong Cham (1 incident), Kampong Thom (1 incident), Kampot (1 incident), and Kampong Chhnang (1 incident).
The damage included: 7 houses burned and 4 rooms. The causes were electrical short circuits in 1 incident (20%), candle and incense fire in 2 incidents (40%), and undetermined in 2 incidents (40%). There were no deaths or injuries.
By: Pai Sokhim
