Tuesday, 29 September 2009

PM Orders Stop to Poipet Payments

Written by DAP NEWS -- Tuesday, 29 September 2009
(Post by CAAI News Media)

Prime Minister Hun Sen on Monday ordered a stop to informal charges at the Poipet border crossing to Thailand.

The premier’s warning came following some reports that Government officials, including police, customs and armies, were taking money from people crossing the border from Thailand.

“This border gate is getting worse and has started to charge money from the citizens. Is this real police or customs? I call on and send the message that it is not a small story for those citizens,” said the premier. The premier stated that this activity is completely illegal. “All money charged is never given as national budget, it is always kept in your pockets,” the premier added.

The PM said that some complicated deals had also taken place, such as the transport of second hand jeans. “In the past … we suggested businessmen to give some donations to the provincial authorities in order to develop the province as directed by top leaders,” Hun Hean, Banteay Meanchey Police Commissioner, told DAP News Cambodia on Monday.

However, the commissioner stated that he will take measures to control the situation as directed by the premier. “Following the premier’s recommendations, we will find workers or police who are responsible.”

Sao Bunrith, Poi Pet border gate patrol chief, said that police have no right to charge money. Sao Bunrith confirmed that he will take action to control the situation.

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