Cambodian Journalist Mech Dara Charged with Incitement

Mech Dara, a Cambodian investigative journalist known for exposing corruption and human trafficking, was arrested and charged with 'inciting social unrest,' potentially facing two years in prison. His arrest occurred at a highway toll booth while returning to Phnom Penh from a holiday, prompting concern from rights groups and the US government. Dara's charges stem from his social media posts regarding a rock quarry on a sacred mountain, which local officials described as 'provocative' and 'false.' Advocates are calling for his release, citing the negative impact on press freedom and access to information in Cambodia. Dara, who received a hero award from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in 2023 for his reporting on scam compounds, has been recognized for his significant contributions to journalism in the country. His detention comes amid heightened scrutiny of Cambodia's crackdown on independent media and ongoing issues with human trafficking and online scams.