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February 11, 2026 – Cambodia –
A Cambodian journalist who was detained after reporting on sensitive religious affairs has been released following questioning by authorities, in a case that has drawn concern from press freedom advocates about state interference in media coverage of religious issues. The reporter, whose name has been widely reported as Sophal Ear, was taken into custody by police in Phnom Penh on 3 February 2026 after publishing an article detailing ceremonies and financial practices linked to a prominent religious institution, local outlets said.
According to Kiri Post and UCA News, the journalist was initially forced to remove the article from the outlet’s website under pressure from authorities shortly before his detention, and was then held for questioning by the Ministry of Information. Government officials said the article contained “inaccurate information” about religious affairs and could potentially disturb public order, although they did not publicly specify which parts were contested or provide evidence of inaccuracy.
The detention occurred amid a broader environment of heightened sensitivity around reporting on religion and governance in Cambodia. In recent years, authorities have detained or warned journalists and bloggers over social media posts and news coverage that touched on religious figures, institutions, or government policy toward faith communities. Rights groups have said these actions create a climate of self-censorship and constrain independent reporting on matters of public interest.
After more than 24 hours in custody, the journalist was released without charge, although officials reportedly warned him and the publishing outlet to adhere to media guidelines and avoid reporting that could be construed as defamatory or “harmful to national harmony.” Upon his release on 4 February, colleagues said he appeared physically unharmed but shaken by the experience. The media organisation subsequently removed the contentious article and issued a statement affirming its commitment to accuracy and respect for cultural norms.
Press freedom advocates expressed concern that the journalist’s detention, although brief, underscores broader risks faced by reporters in Cambodia who cover religious affairs or other sensitive topics. Organisations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists and regional media networks, have urged Cambodian authorities to clarify legal standards that govern religious reporting and to ensure that journalists are not subject to intimidation or arbitrary detention for doing their work.
Media analysts point out that the case highlights tensions between state interests in maintaining social stability and journalists’ efforts to report on issues of cultural and civic significance. They warn that repeated interventions in editorial content by authorities may foster self-censorship and diminish public trust in independent reporting, especially on subjects that intersect with religion, politics, and public life.
Reference –
https://www.ucanews.com/news/cambodia-detains-religious-affairs-journalist-other-reporters/111862
