Cambodian workers shot during protest: police

February 20, 2012
(AFP)

PHNOM PENH - Several Cambodian textile workers were shot and wounded on Monday when a man opened fire at a thousands-strong protest at an industrial zone in the east of the kingdom, officials said.

The shooting, which some local media said was carried out by a security guard, came as workers forced their way into garment factories, hurled rocks and tried to light fires, according to the authorities.

"Police only fired warning shots in the air," said national police spokesman Kirt Chantharith, adding that authorities were investigating the incident.

About 6,000 workers from four factories gathered to demand better work conditions, including lunch money, at the economic zone in Bavet in eastern Svay Rieng province, officials said.

"Three workers were injured, one seriously," Bavet police chief Keo Kong said by telephone.

"A civilian man wearing a white shirt opened fire and fled."

Protesters gave a similar account.

"A man carrying a gun got out of a car and opened fire at the workers," a female worker, Ouk Sam Oeun, told AFP by telephone.

The textile industry is a key source of foreign income for Cambodia and employs more than 400,000 people, mostly women.

Observers say many employees work long hours and skip meals in order to support their families in the impoverished nation.

Tension between staff and bosses erupted in 2010 when tens of thousands of workers went on strike until the government stepped in and arranged talks with manufacturers.