T he Khmer Rouge, who for many years have consistently won the award for knucklehead press statements, have come out with another real winner. Last week on KR radio they referred to Australian Foreign Minister Gareth Evans as the "playboy ringleader of the two heads".

A gentle soul who travels under the code name "Matthew" suggested to the Gecko that the column should include more gossip.

Later in the conversation a juicy tidbit emerged concerning "Matthew's" late night antics and the Gecko wondered aloud if this was the kind of gossip that should be put in print. Mellow "Matthew" replied: "You write that and I'll slit your throat."

Who says people who speak English speak the same language? When US Dep Sec Tomsen was in town he used the phrase "It's a tough row to hoe" at his press conference. Three native, English-speaking journalists reported his comment as follows: "It's a tough road to home," "It's a tough road to hold," and "It's a tough road to hoe".

Citizen's Advisory: The Phnom Penh Municipality has issued a directive establishing fines of 5,000 riel for anyone caught dropping dead rats or mice on the streets.

A good way to prevent cops from putting the bite on you was revealed recently. A motorist was stopped in front of the Peugeot building only to have the constables inform him that he was in violation of the proper registration requirements.

The police then proceeded to debate among themselves whether they should milk what they thought was as unwitting expat for $75 or $100. After a few minutes of debate, the expat decided to literally call their bluff.

He pulled out his mobile phone, called up Co-Minister of Interior You Hokry informing him of the potential scam and then asked His Excellency to have a word with the boys in beige. The coppers got an earful and the motorist, who was subsequently allowed to drive on, commented that he'd never seen policemen look so scared in his entire life.

Do you ever feel like you've had a hard day? A bit of advice on how to get over one. Try the vanila ice cream, banana, papaya fruit shake at the Seven Seven store near the New Market.