Police told to beef up security measures during Pchum Ben festival

Police told to beef up security measures during Pchum Ben festival

National Police Chief General Neth Savoeun instructed all police officers nationwide to beef up security and public order measures to ensure the public’s safety during the upcoming celebrations of the Pchum Ben festival from today to September 18.

Gen Savoeun’s instruction was issued yesterday to all local authorities, provincial and capital police departments to pay attention to the maintenance of security and social order, especially by effectively preventing and suppressing criminal and other illegal activities in a timely manner.

He urged all police officers to implement the safe village and commune policy, as well as to enforce the traffic law, remain alert and take measures to prevent the outbreak of fire. Additionally, they are to go on patrols to protect the homes and properties of those people who at this time are travelling to their home provinces or are off to relax elsewhere.

At the same time, Gen Savoeun instructed the officers to continue disseminating messages to educate the public about health regulations so that they can participate in the prevention
of COVID-19 and determine any suspected cases. Furthermore, anyone who is infected with the disease must immediately report it to the nearest competent authority.

“Officials must take measures at pagodas, entertainment venues, and resorts to ensure people’s safety,” he said. “People should also follow safety instructions to beware of the outbreak of fire incidents.”

Prime Minister Hun Sen yesterday called on people to avoid fire incidents and take preventative measures to avoid COVID-19.

He said that as currently, the country is entirely peaceful and prosperous, it has made it easier for people to have the opportunity to freely celebrate small and large festivals according to the beliefs and custom of their respective religions.

“However, people must be extremely careful to prevent fire incidents that can be caused by the negligent burning of candles during the ceremony,” he said.

Phnom Penh Governor Khuong Sreng on Tuesday called on the public and those responsible for the management of pagodas to enforce health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. All of the measures and guidelines of the Ministry of Health should be implemented, such as the practice of good sanitation, the washing of hands with soap and water, the wearing of masks or kramas, and the implementation of social distancing.

“So far, COVID-19 has not yet spread within the community, but it is still spreading around the world and therefore there is a concern in Cambodia,” he said.

He said all drivers who will be travelling to pagodas in both urban and rural areas for the Pchum Ben festival, as well as those travelling to their hometowns or other destinations for family reunions should drive with consideration tolerance and to obey road traffic laws so as to avoid traffic accidents.

Credited: Khmer Times