The Cambodian National Police will celebrate its 70th anniversary this Saturday at the Ministry of Interior in Phnom Penh, marking the date that Cambodia’s official police force was formed under Japanese occupation during World War II.
“We will hold the 70th anniversary [celebration] of the creation of the National Police at the Ministry of Interior,” Deputy National Police Commissioner Chhay Sinarith said on Thursday.
He referred further questions about the ceremony to National Police spokesman Kirth Chantharith, who could not be reached.
The country’s leaders sent letters to the National Police this week commending continuing efforts by the police force to keep the country safe. Prime Minister Hun Sen said the current incarnation of the force—first given uniforms seven decades ago—have much to be proud of.
“[D]uring almost all of 2014, the national police force faced many tasks,” Mr. Hun Sen said in a letter dated May 12, citing efforts to maintain security, help during natural disasters, protect against the threat of terrorism and prevent social and political upheaval.
In a separate letter signed a day earlier, Interior Minister Sar Kheng also offered his praise on the occasion of the police’s birthday, with special gratitude expressed for the protection of senior leaders and visiting international delegations.
Saturday will also see the launch of the National Police’s own daily newspaper, a 12-page color paper that will report mostly on crime.
