Preah Sihanouk provincial court sentenced a Dutch national today to 18 months in jail for indecent acts against two underage boys.

Judge Li Sokha sentenced 66-year-old Cornelius Marinus Joseph Chamuleau to 18 months in prison, though Chamuleau is suspected to be released this week.

Li Sokha has suspended eight months of the prison term, while the other 10 months have been nearly completed by Chamuleau while awaiting trial in detainment.

Samleang Seila, director of the NGO Actions Pour Les Enfants, said today that he was disappointed in the verdict and would request the Preah Sihanouk provincial prosecutor to oppose the judge’s decision.

“The sentence is too light,” he said.

“We cannot accept the decision as it does not reflect the necessary justice for the children”.

Chamuleau was arrested last April and charged with indecent acts following years of investigation from APLE.

He founded an education programme and NGO in Sihanoukville, and was questioned last year on suspicion of sexually abusing more than 10 underage boys.

According to APLE’s website, police also confiscated a computer containing child pornography during Chamuleau’s arrest.

Li Sokha and Chamuleau’s defence lawyer, Khem Sophana, could not be reached for comment today.