Camera-toting drones banned from Cambodian capital

Authorities in Cambodia's capital city on Monday issued a directive to ban remote-controlled miniature aircraft from its airspace, saying that the camera- equipped drones affect people's privacy and public security.

"To ensure the respect for the rights of people and to maintain security, safety and public order, the Phnom Penh Municipality decides to ban camera-equipped drones from flying over Phnom Penh' s airspace from now on," the directive said.

"In case of necessity, users must apply for permission from the City Hall," it said.

The prohibition came after private television stations and some individuals have used camera-toting drones to take photographs or to film at some private places.

"Violators will be punished in accordance with the law," said Phnom Penh Municipality's spokesman Long Dimanche. Endi