This morning’s tragic deaths which occurred outside the palatial home of Oknha Sok Kong as people trampled each other to get hold of “red envelopes” has sparked criticism regarding the organisation of the charity event and its impact on Cambodia's international reputation.

Four people died in the crowd crush and five people were hospitalised.

Every year, Sok Kong distributes red envelopes ("ang pao") to members of the public during the Chinese New Year. 

However, this year’s event on the morning of January 23 turned tragic when hundreds of people crowded into his residence near Sisowath High School in Daun Penh District to receive envelopes containing 40,000 riel ($10) and 2 kilogrammes of rice.