PHNOM PENH: The Cambodian National Police are working with the Child Protection Unit (CPU) to investigate separate homicide cases following the discovery of the bodies of two young children in Banteay Meanchey province on July 28.
In a statement on Monday (Aug 3), the CPU noted the two investigations are unrelated and that each incident is being treated as an independent child homicide case.
At approximately 8am on July 28, the body of a 15-month-old child was discovered in a pond in Mongkol Borei district.
In a separate same-day incident, the body of a five-year-old child, who had been reported missing on July 25, was found at around the same time, in Teuk Thla commune.
The CPU’s homicide investigation team, working alongside the provincial police and the Minister of Interior’s Department of Technical and Scientific Police, immediately launched investigations into both deaths.
Following forensic examinations of the crime scenes and preliminary investigative work, authorities determined that both cases are being treated as child homicides.
CPU director James McCabe said Cambodian police and the organisation remain committed to conducting thorough and professional investigations into both tragic cases.
“The Cambodian National Police and our partner agencies are committed to conducting comprehensive and professional investigations into these two tragic crimes. We are deploying every necessary investigative resource and capability to ensure both homicide investigations are pursued to their fullest extent,” he said.
McCabe added that anyone found to be involved would be brought before the courts to face prosecution.
The national police and the CPU extended their deepest condolences to the families of the two children, reaffirming their commitment to securing justice for the victims.
Authorities said no further operational details will be released while the investigations remain ongoing. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
