The Phnom Penh Municipal Court compound was thrown briefly into chaos on Friday when police officers shoved and punched reporters trying to speak to jailed radio station owner Mam Sonando, who was questioned at the court over an additional criminal charge of spreading disinformation.
Investigating Judge Thong Ol questioned Mam Sonando for more than two-and-a-half hours over a charge of disinformation lodged on Oct 11 by the court’s Chief Prosecutor Ouk Savouth, defense lawyer Hong Kimsuon said.
Mam Sonando was arrested and imprisoned on Oct 7 after charges were filed against him for allegedly defaming Prime Minister Hun Sen in a radio interview that discussed the controversial border treaty with Vietnam.
Article 62 of the Untac law dealing with disinformation allows for prison sentences of 6 months to 3 years and a fine.
As he was escorted to a waiting police vehicle, several police officers struck out at more than a dozen reporters who tried to speak with the radio station owner. “They do not allow me talk to you,” Mam Sonando shouted over the chaotic scene as he was bustled into a vehicle.
As a prison guard tried to shield his face with a large manila envelope, Mam Sonando shouted: “I am sorry I cannot say anything this time.”
The officers warned the media to stay back and swung out at those who got close to Mam Sonando.
Hong Kimsuon implored the officers to allow his client to say a few words to the media.
“There is nothing against the law in allowing [Mam Sonando] do this,” the lawyer told the officers.
Heng Bophea, court clerk director, said that new rules prohibit journalists from asking questions inside the court compound of those accused of crimes.
Pen Samithy, president of the Club of Cambodia Journalists, said that reporters should have access to Mam Sonando as he has not yet been found guilty of any crime.
