PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — A tragic incident occurred Thursday, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to five more during a chaotic food and cash giveaway in Cambodia. This event was part of a Lunar New Year celebration hosted by one of the wealthiest people in the region, officials reported.

As the gates of Sok Kong’s property in Phnom Penh opened to allow a crowd of hundreds to access the distribution of cash and rice, a surge of people advanced rapidly, leading to a dangerous situation. Eyewitnesses and police spokesperson Sam Vichhika described how the victims were caught in the throng, collapsing as they were overwhelmed by the rush.

The victims, who were aged between 37 and 71, collapsed during the crowd’s panic and were quickly transported to hospitals. Unfortunately, the medical staff were unable to save two women and two men, although reports remain unclear about whether their deaths occurred at the moment of the surge or from injuries incurred afterward.

In the aftermath of the incident, local authorities took immediate action to disperse the crowd and halt the remainder of the giveaway event, prioritizing the safety of those present.

Sok Kong is known for his diverse investments, primarily in the hotel, casino, and oil sectors, and has been recognized for his close ties to former Prime Minister Hun Sen. This annual practice of giving aid to the less fortunate has become a tradition among affluent residents of Phnom Penh, coinciding with the celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year, which is just around the corner this year.