daily-life
Updated 2026-08-26 5 min
In short
- ●The Interior Minister announced the dismissal of any civil servant caught driving under the influence and causing an accident.
- ●The measure aims to strengthen discipline and road safety nationwide.
- ●For expats, this could reduce the risk of accidents involving government vehicles, but enforcement remains to be seen.
- ●Police will intensify breathalyzer checks, especially around tourist areas like Siem Reap.
Immediate dismissal
Measure
Announced on August 26, 2026
Date
Cambodia (nationwide)
Location(s)
Phnom Penh Post
Source
Key Facts at a Glance
- Official announcement. The Interior Minister has pledged to dismiss any ministry employee caught driving under the influence and causing an accident.
- Scope. The measure applies to all staff of the Ministry of Interior, including police officers.
- Objective. To strengthen discipline and reduce alcohol-related road accidents.
- Context. Cambodia records approximately 1,500 road deaths annually, with alcohol being a major factor.
- Enforcement. Enhanced breathalyzer checks are planned, particularly in tourist areas like Siem Reap.
How It Unfolded
The announcement is part of a series of government initiatives to improve road safety. Here are the key steps:
- 2025: The government launches a national awareness campaign on the dangers of drunk driving.
- Early 2026: Internal discussions within the Ministry of Interior lead to a proposal for strict disciplinary sanctions.
- August 2026: The Interior Minister publicly announces the dismissal policy for civil servants caught drunk driving.
- September 2026: Implementation of random breathalyzer checks, especially near bars and tourist zones.
- End of 2026: Evaluation of initial results and possible adjustments to the policy.
Breakdown
The measure primarily affects staff of the Ministry of Interior, but it could extend to other ministries. Here is the breakdown of affected personnel:
| Segment | Number | Details |
|---|---|---|
| National Police | ~50,000 | Active officers nationwide |
| Judicial Police | ~5,000 | Investigation and crime-fighting units |
| Central Administration | ~2,000 | Ministry of Interior staff |
| Border Police | ~3,000 | Officers stationed at entry points |
| Other Services | ~1,000 | Technical and administrative services |
What It Means for Siem Reap
- Potential reduction in accidents involving official vehicles, which are often involved in serious collisions.
- Breathalyzer checks may become more frequent, including for private drivers, increasing the risk of penalties for expats.
- Possible overall improvement in road safety, benefiting scooter or car travel.
- Expats working with public institutions may notice better discipline among their counterparts.
- It's essential to stay informed about new rules and always designate a sober driver after a night out.
How to Avoid Trouble
- Step 1: Never drive after consuming alcohol, even in small amounts.
- Step 2: Use ride-hailing apps (Grab, PassApp) for nighttime trips.
- Step 3: If stopped, cooperate with law enforcement and keep your documents up to date.
- Step 4: Avoid driving during peak hours or in high-traffic tourist areas.
- Step 5: Follow local news to stay informed about new enforcement measures.
- Step 6: In case of an accident, call emergency services and the police immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Does this measure apply to all Cambodian civil servants?
For now, it only applies to staff of the Ministry of Interior. Other ministries may follow, but nothing is official yet.
What are the penalties for an expat caught drunk driving?
Expats are subject to the same laws as Cambodians. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, and in case of a serious accident, criminal prosecution.
Are breathalyzer checks frequent in Siem Reap?
Checks are more common during holidays and weekends. With this new policy, they may become more regular, especially near bars and restaurants.
What should I do if I witness a civil servant driving drunk?
You can report the incident to the police or local authorities. It is recommended to note the license plate number and provide evidence if possible.
Will this measure impact road safety in Siem Reap?
Yes, it could reduce accidents involving official vehicles and improve overall discipline. However, effectiveness will depend on actual enforcement on the ground.
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Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia