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Survivor Bou Meng Dies at 85, Urges Testimony Preservation

8/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bou Meng, a former S-21 detainee, died at 85 on August 14, 2026.
He survived a 1976 execution order because guards assigned him to paint portraits of Pol Pot.
In later years he guided visitors at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, recounting Khmer Rouge crimes.
Youk Chhang, executive director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia, said his death highlights the urgent need to preserve survivor testimonies as witnesses age.

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Story summary

Bou Meng, a former S-21 detainee, died at 85 on August 14, 2026.
He survived a 1976 execution order because guards assigned him to paint portraits of Pol Pot.
In later years he guided visitors at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, recounting Khmer Rouge crimes.
Youk Chhang, executive director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia, said his death highlights the urgent need to preserve survivor testimonies as witnesses age.