Foreign National Dies After Being Run Over by Fellow Countryman in Phnom Penh
A Chinese national tragically lost his life in Phnom Penh on December 3, 2025, after being run over by a fellow compatriot. The deadly incident unfolded at a garment factory in the Prey Sar area, marking a somber moment in the capital’s recent history of fatal disputes.
Details of the Incident
The victim, identified as Xu Guonang, was a 54-year-old Chinese national working at the Olaifa Cambodia Garment factory located on 30-Meter Road, Prey Thom Village, Prey Sar Sangkat in Dangkor District. According to police reports, the incident occurred around 2 p.m., when Nhang Tuan, a 36-year-old Chinese man, arrived at the factory in his white Toyota Corolla, bearing the license plate Phnom Penh 2BV-8516.
The dispute between the two men began when Tuan drove to the factory with the intent of collecting a debt owed to him by Xu. Upon arriving, Tuan went inside the factory to meet Xu and his son. The conversation, which initially centered around the outstanding debt, soon escalated into a heated argument. Xu refused to pay the full amount demanded by Tuan, leading to a confrontation that spiraled into physical aggression.
Escalating Tensions and Tragic Outcome
After the altercation in the office, Tuan left the building and returned to his car. However, Xu, seemingly intent on further negotiations, chased after Tuan. The victim reportedly knocked on the right-hand window of the car, asking the suspect to speak with him, but Tuan refused to open the window.
In a final attempt to settle the matter, Xu ran to the left side of the car, knocking on that window as well. At this point, Tuan made a decision that would tragically end Xu’s life. As the argument continued, Tuan attempted to drive away, and in the process, struck Xu with his vehicle, causing severe injuries.
Immediate Response and Aftermath
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly thereafter and rushed Xu to Royal Hospital. Unfortunately, despite efforts to save him, Xu Guonang was pronounced dead at the hospital due to the severity of his injuries.
Following the incident, security guards at the factory apprehended Tuan and handed him over to the authorities. He was subsequently taken into custody by officers from Dangkor District Police Station. Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, Xu’s body has been released to his family for a traditional funeral, as his loved ones process the unexpected and tragic loss.
Police Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Tuan, who is also a Chinese national, remains temporarily detained at the Dangkor District Police Headquarters. He faces questioning over the events that led to Xu’s death. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation into the matter is ongoing, with law enforcement working to determine the exact motivations behind Tuan’s actions.
This tragic incident highlights the sometimes deadly consequences of unresolved financial disputes and the need for greater conflict resolution strategies in both personal and business dealings.
A Somber Reflection on Phnom Penh’s Foreign Community
As Cambodia continues to experience an influx of foreign nationals, especially from China, tensions over business transactions and cultural misunderstandings can sometimes escalate in harmful ways. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers when emotions and financial matters collide, particularly when individuals are unable to resolve disputes peacefully.
Public Safety experts have urged both local authorities and foreign nationals living in Phnom Penh to prioritize open communication and seek mediation in cases of conflict. It is hoped that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for promoting safer, more respectful interactions within the city’s international community.
