The National Police website reported yesterday that Deputy Prime Minister Sar Kheng had requested private security firms to start employing “retired policemen”. Speaking to 34 security firms during a dinner on Thursday, Sar Kheng said the recruitment drive would be based on the “volunteerism” of the retirees.

“This must be based on their volunteerism, so they can both earn a living and use their experience to continue providing private security,” he said. Chhay Sinarith, deputy national police commissioner, was quoted as saying that there were 156 private security companies in Cambodia, although only 94 had signed contracts with the National Police.

There were a total of 12,179 security personnel. “Private firms have provided security and protection to homes, property and peoples lives. They contribute, along with the government, to security and social order,” he said.