Phnom Penh (dpa) – The United Nations' labor agency said Tuesday international buyers were “extremely concerned” at Cambodia's failure to arrest the suspect in last month's shootings of three garment workers at a subcontractor for German sportswear firm PUMA SE. Jill Tucker, technical advisor to the International Labor Organization, said the lack of progress could damage the country as a destination for international brands. “We have heard from brands sourcing in Cambodia that they strongly feel they would like to see quicker progress,” Tucker said. “Our concern is a reflection of the buyers' concern – and they seem to be extremely concerned.” “We would like to see swift and fair and equitable and just resolution of the case,” she said. Government spokesmen were not available for comment. The Ministry of Interior said last week that the governor of Bavet City where the February 20 shootings took place was believed to be the gunman, and said he would be arrested. A PUMA spokesman declined to comment on the case, but said late Monday the safety of its workers was “a primary concern.” “PUMA is currently working with local organizations and industry representatives to agree on a common position within the industry in order to act jointly,” spokesman Ulf Santer said by email, adding that the parties would issue a statement later in the week. The garment industry is a pillar of Cambodia's economy, and according to the International Monetary Fund earned the country 3.75 billion dollars last year. BM ShortURL: http://goo.gl/Ex3Xk Tags: Cambodia, Gunman, ILO, Workers Section: East Asia, Latest News
