Construction of bungalows in Preah Sihanouk province’s Koh Rong was halted by authorities yesterday, when the provincial governor determined the builders were not licensed.

Provincial Governor Chhit Sokhon yesterday said the construction of dozens of bungalows for two unnamed “rich people” was stopped due to licensing issues.

Only Royal Group, owned by tycoon Kith Meng, is certified to develop Koh Rong.

“They violated the law, because they are rich,” Sokhon said yesterday. “Authorities at the commune level noticed, but dared not do anything; so provincial authorities went down to order the stoppage.”

Sokhon said neither developer had applied for a licence.

In 2008, The Royal Group was granted a 99-year lease by the government to develop a 78-square-kilometre area there, Sokhon said. Although Meng’s group has yet to begin any substantial work, his company still holds sole rights.

“His development is going along with his plan of slow development,” Sokhon said.

Meng could not be reached for comment.