Cambodia: Authorities have detained suspects involved in a Jan. 28 attack on a bus of foreign tourists in Phnom Penh

Event

Authorities have detained suspects of a Jan. 28 attack on a bus of Chinese tourists nearby Mao Tse Toung and Monivong boulevards in Phnom Penh. The assailants reportedly used their cars to block the bus, used firearms to threaten the passengers, and attacked the bus driver. Authorities said the attackers included both Chinese and Cambodian nationals, though the number of assailants is unclear. Reports indicate the incident did not cause any injury to the tourists. The cause of the attack is yet unclear; possible reasons include a business, gambling, or personal dispute.

Context

The threat of violent crime in Phnom Penh is moderate. Foreign nationals are sometimes targeted by criminals. Violent crime against foreigners is frequently tied to business or gambling disputes. Criminals in the country are often willing to resort to force.