Demonstrators clash with police in Cambodia
- 10 years ago
Demonstrators in Cambodia clash with police during a rally calling for the release of 23 garment industry protesters that are on trial.
The protest took place in capital city Phnom Penh.
In January, 23 activists and workers were arrested during a garment industry strike.
At that strike, authorities used live ammunition to disperse crowds, killing five workers.
The protesters were demanding a minimum wage hike to $160 per month due to rising living costs.
(SOUNDBITE) (Khmer) PROTESTER BOU CHOVY SAYING:
"We are here to demand that the court find justice for the 23 victims because they committed no crime. They must free them now."
Around 500 demonstrators gathered here near the city's municipal court to protest the crackdown.
The 23 defendants face various charges, including committing intentional violence.
Activists say that if convicted, they could face up to five years in prison.
The protest took place in capital city Phnom Penh.
In January, 23 activists and workers were arrested during a garment industry strike.
At that strike, authorities used live ammunition to disperse crowds, killing five workers.
The protesters were demanding a minimum wage hike to $160 per month due to rising living costs.
(SOUNDBITE) (Khmer) PROTESTER BOU CHOVY SAYING:
"We are here to demand that the court find justice for the 23 victims because they committed no crime. They must free them now."
Around 500 demonstrators gathered here near the city's municipal court to protest the crackdown.
The 23 defendants face various charges, including committing intentional violence.
Activists say that if convicted, they could face up to five years in prison.