The Brutality of S-21 and Khmer Rouge Dynamics

This chapter explores the inner workings of the S-21 interrogation center under the Khmer Rouge, focusing on the young ethnic Khmer staff and their evolving victimization strategies. It details the extreme paranoia and class warfare that led to a broader purge of perceived enemies amidst regional tensions with Vietnam. The narrative culminates in harrowing accounts of violence against Vietnamese civilians and the escalating conflict, highlighting the catastrophic political transformations of the late 1970s.