On March 25, 2025, the Phnom Penh Municipal Court delivered a verdict in a child sexual abuse case, sentencing a 38-year-old Cambodian national to five years in prison under the Criminal Code of Cambodia for committing sexual offences against a 14-year-old girl. The court also ordered him to pay 15,000,000 Riels (approximately 3,750 USD) in compensation to the victim.
The case was investigated following a report by APLE Cambodia to the Anti-Human Trafficking and Juvenile Protection police in January 2021. The young survivor had traveled to Phnom Penh to work as a housekeeper but suffered abuse from her employer upon arrival. Although the perpetrator initially escaped, he was eventually caught and brought to trial.
The court proceedings commenced on February 28, 2025, in a private setting to protect the survivor’s privacy. This case exemplifies the importance of supporting child survivors in their pursuit of justice.
APLE’s victim support team provided psychological support to the survivor and collaborated with a partner NGO to ensure access to necessary services.
The court’s decision not only holds the perpetrator accountable but also serves as a deterrent to similar offenses.
