Social researchers and the Cambodian Centre for Independent Media (CCIM) say they will raise funds for the families of rights workers who have been jailed for the past month.

CCIM executive director Pa Nguon Teang and researchers Kem Ley and Meas Ny said they will arrange a meal and charity event for June 17 – with tickets at $25 apiece – to raise money for the four jailed Adhoc staffers and a National Election Committee member.

Teang said the event was to ease the financial difficulties for the families of Ny Chakrya, Nay Vanda, Ny Sokha, Yi Soksan and Lem Mony while they are detained in Prey Sar over allegations of bribing a witness in a case involving opposition acting president Kem Sokha that has been widely criticised as politically motivated.

In the wake of government crackdowns on activities supporting the political prisoners, Teang feared the authorities would put a stop to the fundraiser. “It will be detrimental if having a meal together is banned,” he said.

Chin Bunthoeun, spokesman for Phnom Penh City Hall, said the size of the fundraiser would determine whether it was allowed to take place.

Yem Chantha, wife of Ny Chakrya, said her family was “desperate” for help.

“The funds can reduce the expenses . . . My youngest [child] gets sick very often with flu and fever since my husband was detained,” she said.