PHNOM PENH - The Cambodian authorities have arrested 281 suspects for drugs in the past two months in fighting against drug sales and trafficking in the country.

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A report filed by the Phnom Penh Municipal police, a copy of it seen Monday, showed that between Jan 11 and March 2, the authorities have arrested 281 suspects involving in 115 cases of drug related charges.

Of all arrested suspects, 57 were women.

According to the report, the suspects involved in producing, distributing and consuming drugs.

Along with the arrests, the authorities confiscated 197.86 grams of methamphetamines, 9.86 grams of heroin, 471 pills of yama (yaba), and 71.12 grams of marijuana and 3 scales.

The report indicated that the arrested include Meok Dara, lieutenant general of Cambodia's national police, who was secretary general of the National Authority for Combating Drugs prior to his arrest.

The ex-general was summoned for questioning on Jan 12 and was officially charged on Jan 16 with receiving bribes in exchange of releasing a drug related suspect.

According to the law, Meok Dara might face three to seven years in jail if found guilty.

It is not known yet when the court will set the date for his trial.  

Cambodia has been known as one of the drug transit countries. Prime Minister Hun Sen has called for increased efforts in fighting against drug trafficking in the country.