Cambodian activists arrested for investigating illegal logging released

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, a prominent environmentalist, Ouch Leng, and five other activists were released on Monday after being detained a day earlier during their investigation into illegal logging within the Veun Sai-Siem Pang National Park. This national park has seen a rise in illegal deforestation linked to new economic land concessions granted by the government. The activists were taken into custody while documenting these activities, and upon their release, they signed a promise not to return to the prohibited zone. They face potential court action if they trespass again. The government's recent crackdown on environmental activists reflects a broader trend of increasing repression within Cambodia. In July, for instance, several members of the Mother Nature Cambodia group were sentenced to prison for campaigning against damaging infrastructure projects. Despite the change in leadership with Prime Minister Hun Manet succeeding his father in August last year, the lack of political liberalization raises concerns for activists and critics in the country.