The Battambang Provincial Court yesterday charged two men with the attempted murder of a man they claim made an attempt on their lives three years ago.

The latest alleged assault took place in Mong Russey district, according to military police deputy district director for crime Srey Sreang, who identified the suspects as Koeun Rotha, 26, and his friend Yeak Kosal, 23, both from Kea commune.

Sreang said the pair were arrested on Monday after allegedly chasing victim Ouk Pheakdey, 28, on their motorbike with machetes.

Rotha and Kosal were sent to court for questioning, during which they allegedly claimed the attack was motivated by revenge.

“They attempted to take revenge but they were unsuccessful. So, while they were previously victims, they have now become suspects in an attempted murder,” Sreang said.

Sreang added that during their confessions, the pair said their alleged victim, Pheakdey, had ambushed them with a knife three years ago while they were on their way to go dancing.

His parents then sent him to Phnom Penh to duck legal responsibility, they maintained.