National
12 May 2026 9:42 AM• 1 hour ago• Lim_Rothanaksambath
NBC: Imprisonment from 20 Years to Life for Currency Defacement and Counterfeiting
1778578965 6a02f615ec162 0
00:00/00:00
PHNOM PENH (May 12, 2026) — The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) has issued a stern warning to social media users and the general public regarding the improper use and manipulation of the Khmer Riel. The bank noted with concern that some individuals have been using images of the national currency for graphic design or digital alterations, actions that the NBC views as a serious affront to national identity.
The central bank emphasized that the symbols and historical figures on the Riel reflect Cambodia’s heritage and unity. Defacing, writing on, or altering these banknotes is considered an insult to the nation.
Legal Obligations and Severe Penalties
The NBC reminded the public of the strict legal framework governing the national currency:
1. Property Status: Under Article 53 of the Law on the Organization and Conduct of the National Bank of Cambodia, banknotes are state property. Holders are legally obligated to keep them in good condition.
2. Life Imprisonment: Most critically, the bank highlighted Article 65, which mandates that any person found counterfeiting or severely altering legal tender faces imprisonment ranging from 20 years to life.
The NBC urged all citizens to handle the Riel with respect, warning that activities which damage the integrity or original characteristics of the currency could lead to immediate legal action and the loss of the banknote's value.
Source: National Bank of Cambodia, 12 May 2026
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1314024874204654&set=a.268116292128856
Reported by The Khmer Daily Desk
The central bank emphasized that the symbols and historical figures on the Riel reflect Cambodia’s heritage and unity. Defacing, writing on, or altering these banknotes is considered an insult to the nation.
Legal Obligations and Severe Penalties
The NBC reminded the public of the strict legal framework governing the national currency:
1. Property Status: Under Article 53 of the Law on the Organization and Conduct of the National Bank of Cambodia, banknotes are state property. Holders are legally obligated to keep them in good condition.
2. Life Imprisonment: Most critically, the bank highlighted Article 65, which mandates that any person found counterfeiting or severely altering legal tender faces imprisonment ranging from 20 years to life.
The NBC urged all citizens to handle the Riel with respect, warning that activities which damage the integrity or original characteristics of the currency could lead to immediate legal action and the loss of the banknote's value.
Source: National Bank of Cambodia, 12 May 2026
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1314024874204654&set=a.268116292128856
Reported by The Khmer Daily Desk
1778578966 6a02f61666df8 0