February 20, 2026
Two Cambodian journalists have been sentenced to 14 years in prison on charges of treason, following a one-day trial that has raised serious concerns about press freedom in the country.
Pheap Phara, a reporter for TSP 68 TV Online, and Phon Sopheap, affiliated with Battambang Post TV Online, were convicted under Section 445 of Cambodia’s criminal code. The provision, categorized as an anti-state offense, carries a maximum sentence of 15 years for allegedly “supplying a foreign state with information prejudicial to national defense.”
The verdict was delivered on December 17, 2025, but details of the sentencing only became public after the journalists filed an appeal earlier this week.
Both reporters were arrested on July 31, 2025, shortly after returning from coverage of tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border in Oddar Meanchey province. While the specific reports that led to the treason charges have not been publicly identified, local media indicated that the journalists had been photographed with Cambodian soldiers near a Buddhist temple where unexploded landmines were reportedly present.
The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has drawn heightened political sensitivity. Cambodian authorities have rejected Thai allegations that new landmines were planted in contested areas, accusations that would conflict with Cambodia’s obligations under the Ottawa Treaty banning landmines.
A spokesperson for the Siem Reap court stated that an official explanation of the ruling would be issued, but declined to provide further details. The journalists’ lawyer confirmed that both men are appealing the convictions.
The sentencing adds to mounting concerns over the use of broad national security laws against journalists in Cambodia. Critics argue that such provisions are increasingly being used to criminalize reporting on politically sensitive matters.
Cambodia has faced sustained scrutiny over restrictions on independent journalism, with multiple reporters currently detained in connection with their work.
The outcome of the appeal will be closely watched as an indicator of the country’s commitment to press freedom and due process.