Award winning journalist Mech Dara, who was arrested Oct 1st, was released on bail after providing a video “apology” for his “false” investigative reporting according to Reuters. Since his arrest and charge of “incitement” the U.S government expressed its concern, and rights groups have been calling for his release.   

Exposing corruption may lead to prison time 

Dara has a well-established reputation for shining a light on corruption and human trafficking, particularly cyber-slavery compounds in Cambodia. Since his arrest, he had been held in pre-trial detention. He stands accused of the vague charge of incitement. A charge which is regularly used in Cambodia against government critics. 

Before leaving jail Dara spoke briefly to reporters saying: 

“I am very thankful to everyone and to all my friends, both local and international, who did everything to support and help me to be released,”  

A few days before his release journalists were shown a video of Dara in prison garb apologizing for his reporting. Accompanying the video were images of a handwritten letter said to be written by Dara. If found guilty, he faces up to two years in prison.  

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