Cambodian orphanage: Ex-head stole US$1.4 million, molested children, inquiry finds
- Sovann Komar, founded by American heiress Elizabeth Ross Johnson, found Sothea Arun committed ‘horrific child abuse and financial fraud’
- Its investigation was done after Sothea – a survivor of the Khmer Rouge regime – was sacked
In an August 8 media statement, the Sovann Komar home said its year-long inquiry had uncovered “widespread evidence of horrific child abuse and financial fraud” committed by Sothea Arun, its former executive director.
The inquiry, conducted by a legal team with power of attorney, was launched after Sothea was sacked last August.
“Sothea Arun lived an extravagant lifestyle paid for by stealing funds designated for orphaned and abandoned children,” it said. “While he lived like a lord, the children of Sovann Komar were neglected and abused both sexually and physically by Sothea Arun and his staff.”
Sothea was unavailable for comment, but he has previously denied any accusations.
During his time with the NGO, he built for himself a luxury villa that included a swimming pool and a karaoke room.