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2 Cambodian journalists appeal treason convictions over a photo from Thai border clash
Two journalists convicted under an anti-state law face 14-year sentences for reporting on a border dispute, reflecting Cambodia's harsh stance on press freedom, CPJ said.
- On February 20, 2026, Siem Reap court revealed Pheap Pheara and Phorn Sopheap were convicted of treason, with their families filing appeals, according to court sources.
- On July 31, 2025, the reporters were arrested after returning from reporting on a Cambodia–Thailand border dispute in Oddar Meanchey province, authorities say Facebook photos prompted charges.
- Tried on December 17, 2025, the case proceeded under Section 445 of the Cambodian criminal code, and Yin Srang, Siem Reap Provincial Court spokesperson, said a statement would follow but declined questions.
- Press-Freedom groups note Cambodia's low ranking on the 2025 RSF index and its record of jailing journalists, with at least six reporters held, underscoring wider media-freedom concerns.
- Diplomatic strains rose as Thailand accused Cambodia of planting fresh mines and Cambodia denied the allegation, with clashes displacing hundreds of thousands and killing about 100.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Cambodian Journalists Challenge Treason Convictions Over Facebook Posts
Two Cambodian journalists have appealed treason convictions linked to Facebook posts showing military zones amidst Cambodian-Thai border clashes. The journalists were accused of compromising national defense by posting photos that included land mines, contradicting Cambodia's official stance. Appeals have been lodged against their 14-year sentences.
Associated Press News
2 Cambodian journalists appeal treason convictions over a photo from Thai border clash
Two Cambodian journalists are appealing treason convictions for posting photos on Facebook related to border clashes last year with Thailand.
Cambodian journalists Pheap Phara and Phon Sopheap given 14-year prison sentences for treason
Bangkok, February 20, 2026—The Committee to Protect Journalists condemns the harsh 14-year prison sentences handed to Cambodian journalists Pheap Phara and Phon Sopheap for treason, after they were found guilty of “supplying a foreign state with information prejudicial to national defense.” Phara, a reporter with the local TSP 68 TV Online, and Sopheap, a journalist...
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