PURSAT provincial court has summoned 12 people from Krakor district to appear for questioning in connection with a recent protest against the Pheapimex Group, a local conglomerate.

The 12 have been accused of inciting protests, destroying private property and preventing the company from developing private land, said community representative Kun Veng, one of those who received a summons.

“They create a fake case to accuse us, even though they know they need evidence,” he said. Kun Veng said the company was destroying land that locals own and depend on for a living.

On November 10, hundreds of local residents gathered in Krakor district, protesting the company’s efforts to clear forest and farmland for the development of acacia and cassava plantations.

Villagers may also bring a complaint against Pheapimex, said Duok Sary, another of those who received a court summons.

Provincial prosecutor Top Chansereyvuth and Pheapimex representative Ty Kimtok both declined to comment.