The demon drink took a heavy toll on five mates on a bender in Kratie town on Monday. A row broke out, and three of the group attacked the other two with axes, seriously injuring them.

The drunken assailants tried to flee the scene, but villagers teamed up with police to stop them in their tracks before they were arrested.

The victims, who sustained back injuries, were sent to hospital. Court awaits their erstwhile pals.

KAMPUCHEA THMEY