Law enforcement authorities cracked down on 205 criminal cases across Cambodia in September, arresting 315 suspects who were subsequently sent to court for legal action, according to a Ministry of Interior report.

Police forces operating from the General Commissariat of National Police down to commune administrative stations carried out targeted operations throughout the month.

Youths are increasingly joining gangs and getting involved in crime and violence. Police

The recorded offences covered a range of criminal activities, including violence, fraud, theft, snatch-and-grab robberies, armed robbery, rape, murder, illegal weapons use and unintentional homicide.

Theft accounted for the largest share with 91 incidents, followed by intentional violence with 64 cases. The incidents occurred across Phnom Penh and 20 provinces, including Siem Reap, Svay Rieng, Kandal, Preah Sihanouk and Battambang.

Under Cambodia’s 2009 Criminal Code, theft carries a prison sentence of six months to three years alongside fines ranging from one million to six million riel, while aggravated theft involving violence or forced entry carries three to 10 years.

Intentional violence is punishable by one to three years in prison, increasing to two to five years if aggravating factors such as weapons or premeditation are involved. Fraud carries a sentence of six months to three years, which increases for organised groups or public official impersonation.

Meanwhile, intentional homicide carries a prison term of 10 to 15 years, with premeditated murder carrying a life sentence.

The Ministry of Interior said that the arrests form part of ongoing nationwide efforts by the National Police to suppress criminal activity and enforce public safety.