February 12, 2025
PHNOM PENH – As the Ministry of Justice reviews a draft law on counterterrorism, Senate president Prime Minister Hun Sen has revealed an alleged plan to attack his residence in Takhmao town, Kandal province, using drones.
Speaking at an inauguration ceremony at Preah Indra Samakidham Pagoda in Kandal province’s Kraing Mkak commune, in Ang Snuol district, the former prime minister disclosed that a few weeks ago, the authorities uncovered a plot to attack his home.
He explained that one individual from Takeo province has been arrested in connection with the scheme, but suggested that more people with links to the alleged attack may lose their freedom.
Recently, Hun Sen proposed a law which would label “extremist opposition” members as terrorist, perhaps targeting overseas opposition groups.
“Regarding the preparation of a law which designates extremist groups which seek to overthrow the legitimate government as terrorists, we are currently conducting a detailed legal review,” Seng Dina, justice ministry spokesperson, told The Post.
Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, warned that if such an attack against the country’s leadership were truly planned, it would pose a serious threat to national security, and therefore necessitate stronger protective measures.
“Terrorist attacks are a real possibility, as seen in Russia, where drones have struck many targets, and in the US, where the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon killed nearly 3,000 people,” he noted.
Hun Sen himself has previously survived an assassination attempt, in Siem Reap province in 1998, though the attack failed to hit its intended target, Peou added.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening Cambodia’s security strategy, particularly in regard to safeguarding national leaders.
“Protecting leaders like the former prime minister ensures long-term peace and political stability in Cambodia,” added Peou.