Human rights officials have expressed concern over the arrest of activist Khem Srey Mom, saying the case could impinge on freedom of expression.

Am Sam Ath, operations director of human rights group Licadho, told reporters that human rights officials are closely monitoring the case. He said Khem Srey Mom is being questioned at the Phnom Penh Police office.

According to human rights officials, authorities arrested Khem Srey Mom in a rented room in Phnom Penh on Saturday, May 16, 2026. There has been no official confirmation of the motive or charges against the activist.

Am Sam Ath said, Khem Srey Mom is a social activist who often speaks out against social injustice. Her Facebook account recently shared a video involving Thai soldiers and the Cambodian-Thai border issue.

Local human rights organizations have expressed concern over the increasing number of arrests of citizens, activists, and monks who have spoken out about the border issue. In April 2026, several people were arrested, including Ma Chantara in Siem Reap province, In Sokharat in Svay Rieng province, Sam Sopheang in Tbong Khmum province, and Monk Chea Wutthy in Battambang province.

Licadho stated that more than 100 opposition politicians and activists were arrested or convicted in connection with exercising their right to expression.