Footage of the July assault on Ek Socheata, better known by her stage name SaSa, sparked outrage in a country where the rich are often seen to be beyond the reach of the law.

Wealthy businessman Sok Bun fled to Singapore after the attack, but returned to Cambodia after calls from strongman Prime Minister Hun Sen to give himself up. He was arrested on arrival at the airport and charged with violent conduct.

Sok Bun admitted guilt and begged the public to forgive him.

Yesterday, a Phnom Penh court sentenced the tycoon to three years in prison.

He will serve 10 months in jail while the rest of the sentence is suspended, Judge Sor Lina ruled.

The property magnate, who was not present in court due to sickness, was also fined about US$1,500 (RM6,300).

Violence against women is common in Cambodia but the public exposure of the attack struck a nerve in the country.

– AFP