Environmental journalist Ouk Mao, who is reportedly facing multiple lawsuits, was arrested on May 16, 2025.
The provincial coordinator for the human rights group ADHOC in Stung Treng confirmed that Ouk Mao on May 16. However, the reason for his arrest remains unclear at this time.
Mao’s wife told CamboJA that he was arrested at their home around 12 p.m. by two men, one of whom was wearing a military police uniform. She said they did not provide any explanation for the arrest.
Previously, on March 24, 2025, Ouk Mao—who reports for Intri Plus News—was physically assaulted by three individuals, reportedly former provincial officials. The attack caused minor injuries to his face, and his smartphone was destroyed during the incident.
The journalist told CamboJA at the time that he had received reports from local villagers about illegal deforestation in the Prey Lang community. Around 2:00 PM, while returning home after photographing the site, he was stopped by three men who demanded that he delete the photos. When he refused, one of the men punched him in the face, causing minor injuries, and smashed his smartphone.
Two days later, on March 26, Mao filed a complaint with the district police. However, he was informed that a separate complaint had also been filed against him. Authorities did not disclose who lodged the complaint.
On April 24, 2025, the Stung Treng Provincial Court summoned Ouk Mao to appear on May 20 in connection with the alleged violence that occurred on March 24. Mao told CamboJA before his arrest that he is currently facing up to 15 legal cases.