Police are investigating the murder of an opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party activist who was hacked to death with a scythe while walking at night in Tbong Khmum district, in the province of the same name, on Wednesday.

CNRP representative Khin Eab, a 55-year-old farmer, was returning from his brother’s home in Chikor district at about 8:30pm when he was struck on the head with the weapon, said fellow opposition activist Seang Seangly, the party’s executive director in the province.

“He was hit along the road about 300 to 400 metres from his house,” said Seangly.

“Examining the wound on the front left eyebrow, it looks like it was made by a scythe.”

Seangly also noted there were small patches of forest along the street where Eab was killed, which made it easier for the killer to hide.

“We have not received any information about the identity of the killer yet,” he added.

Deputy district police chief Long Sarin said early indicators pointed to a personal motive, given that the victim’s possessions and cash were left on his person.

“The killer did not take anything from him. Maybe it’s related to revenge. He wore a watch and it is still there. He has 40,000 riel and it is still there,” Sarin said, adding police were continuing to investigate.