Original report from Phnom Penh
30 May 2008
National police on Friday clashed violently with protesters outside the Kandal province residence of Prime Minister Hun Sen, injuring six, rights officials said.
The injured were among a large group of marching protesters who came from Battambang province last week seeking the prime minister’s help in a land dispute.
Protester Seng Mony said police hit demonstrators with walkie-talkies, incurring head injuries.
Police had asked protesters to gather in one area, but they refused, because they wanted to be seen by Hun Sen in another [area], he said.
Another protester, Chim Sara, said the protesters had come to seek “a place of justice,” but had been “very disappointed.”
Authorities declined comment.
The injured were among a large group of marching protesters who came from Battambang province last week seeking the prime minister’s help in a land dispute.
Protester Seng Mony said police hit demonstrators with walkie-talkies, incurring head injuries.
Police had asked protesters to gather in one area, but they refused, because they wanted to be seen by Hun Sen in another [area], he said.
Another protester, Chim Sara, said the protesters had come to seek “a place of justice,” but had been “very disappointed.”
Authorities declined comment.
