Phnom Penh: The administration of Correctional Center 1, M1, on May 6, 2026, issued a detailed statement to inform the public and journalists about the true cause of death of inmate Ly Samet at the age of 73.
According to Mr. Nuth Savana, director of the prison, said that Mr. Ly Samet had serious physical illnesses, including diabetes and high blood pressure, before being sent to detention in November 2024. During his detention, although he was not hospitalized outside, he was allowed to stay at the center’s health center for regular health monitoring and medical examinations, and was allowed to play bowls every day.
Recently, he has shown signs of depression and sadness due to the pressure of the case, which is sentenced to a total of 24 years, and other cases that are about to be sentenced.
At 7:35 a.m. on May 6, officers found the body of Mr. Ly Samet on the bed in a stiff state, in a state of sleep. The center immediately sealed off the scene and reported it to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court Prosecutor’s Office and specialized units. The forensic team, led by tycoon Dr. Non Sovannarath, along with the deceased’s family, determined that he died of “heart attack” caused by diabetes and severe hypertension.
On behalf of the head of Prey Sar Prison, Mr. Nut Savana expressed his regret over the death and We categorically reject the accusations of some opportunists who have posted false information that this death is a result of an online scam. He stated that these remarks were incitement and caused confusion among the authorities who were performing their duties.
Mr. Nut Savana also called on all social media users to respect the deceased and their grieving families by stopping the use of insulting words. Or trample on those who have passed away.
Currently, Mr. Ly Samet’s body is being prepared by his family in a religious ceremony and is being paraded from the center to his home with great sadness.
By: Soy Rithy
