Sat Jan 11 09:43:16 UTC 2025: ## Thai Man Confesses to Killing Cambodian Opposition Lawmaker in Bangkok

**Bangkok, Thailand –** A Thai man, Ekalak Paenoi, has confessed to the premeditated murder of Lim Kimya, a former Cambodian opposition lawmaker, Thai police announced Saturday. Paenoi, arrested in Cambodia and extradited to Thailand, admitted guilt to police and the media, also facing charges of illegal gun ownership.

Lim Kimya, who also held French citizenship, was shot dead Tuesday in Bangkok by a motorcyclist. He had traveled to Bangkok from Cambodia with his French wife. Cambodian opposition figures have accused former Cambodian leader Hun Sen of ordering the assassination, although a Cambodian government spokesman denied any official involvement.

Paenoi, described by Thai media as a former marine, was apprehended by Cambodian authorities Wednesday following an extradition request from Thailand. He was transferred to Thai police Saturday via helicopter. Thai police are still investigating the motive but have also issued an arrest warrant for a Cambodian accomplice.

The killing has sparked international condemnation, with France, Lim Kimya’s other nationality, strongly condemning the act. Scores of Cambodian opposition activists have sought refuge in Thailand in recent years, facing alleged repression in their home country; some have been arrested and deported. While Hun Sen stepped down as prime minister in 2023, handing power to his son, he remains a powerful figure in Cambodia. The incident highlights ongoing political tensions and the risks faced by Cambodian opposition figures.

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