A man accused of planning and carrying out his pregnant wife’s gruesome murder yesterday denied killing her – but admitted to a courtoom it was something he had intended to do.

Officials at Phnom Penh Municipal Court finished questioning Si Lou Henglong, 32, and his mistress, Sovann Voleak, 22, yesterday, deputy prosecutor Heang Sopheak said.

Police allege that on the night of October 10, Henglong left the doors at his Meanchey district home unlocked – allowing Voleak easy access – and stashed a knife and gloves under the house, which she later used to slash the throat of Chou Ly Chou, Henglong’s wife.

Voleak also allegedly stole jewellery and about $6,800 cash.

In court yesterday, Voleak denied killing Ly Chou, and said her earlier statements to police were made under duress.

Henglong also denied taking part in the murder, telling the court that he had planned on killing his wife for months, but never found the right opportunity.

If guilty, the pair faces life in prison.