The trial of tycoon and alleged methamphetamine dealer Tan Senghak on drug-trafficking charges was delayed yesterday for a third time by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court due to the absence of police and witnesses involved in the case.

Presiding judge Kim Dany noted that the case was first delayed on May 9 due to the absence of defence lawyers, and then again on May 26 because the judges and prosecutors were busy with the national election. Dany said the hearing is now set to take place August 21.

Senghak, a former adviser to Senate president Chea Sim, and his five accomplices were arrested by anti-drug police following a raid on his Sen Sok district home in November.

After the arrest, police seized $2,500 in cash, 10 bullets and a bag of pipes, in addition to packages of cocaine and methamphetamines.