KhmerTimes-Nov 4, 2026
The crackdown on technology-based fraud has achieved results, with authorities claiming to have dismantled large-scale scam compounds. In a review of September anti-online scam operations, officials assessed that Cambodia no longer hosts large-scale organized online scam networks. However, remaining criminal groups have shifted operations into smaller, more mobile units to escape detection. The review, chaired by Interior Minister Sar Sokha, took place on Monday in Phnom Penh. According to a report compiled by the National Police General Commissariat, the national crackdown has crippled large-scale internet scam operations, making it difficult for criminal groups to reorganize into extensive networks.
Speaking at the meeting, Sokha said that despite the positive results, the country has not reached the goal of completely eliminating online scams. He noted that criminal groups have changed strategies by operating in smaller units, allowing them to disguise identities, frequently change accommodation, and evade law enforcement surveillance. They have increased the use of technology and private premises to conceal their activities, he added. Authorities raided 60 technology-based scam locations across seven capital and provincial jurisdictions in September: Preah Sihanouk, Phnom Penh, Svay Rieng, Banteay Meanchey, Kandal, Pursat, and Battambang.
During operations, authorities detained 837 suspects of 15 nationalities, including Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese, Bangladeshi, Cambodian, Japanese, South Korean, Indian, Myanmar, Pakistani, Malaysian, Nepalese, Filipino, and Lao nationals. Authorities prepared case files against 11 individuals for submission to courts and deported 2,187 foreign nationals who violated the law, including 260 women, representing 50 nationalities. Owners and managers of raided premises were collectively fined 759.36 million riel. Read more at:
