Police seized and destroyed about 100 homemade crossbows and arrow-firing guns from villagers during a crackdown on the illegal weapons in Kratie province on Monday.

Provincial police chief Chuong Seanghak said the weapons could be used to hunt wildlife or kill people.

Villagers were accused of using similar weapons during an alleged secessionist uprising in the province’s Broma village last year, but Seanghak denied any connection.

“These weapons are prohibited to use in this country,’’ he said.

Deputy police chief Sum Sokhim said a recent report had shown a recent rise in the use of the weapons, and that authorities would conduct an awareness program.

 

To contact the reporter on this story: Buth Reaksmey Kongkea at [email protected]