KhmerTimes-Sept 8, 2026
Online gambling operations at all casinos nationwide will be suspended from October to combat tech-enabled scams and illicit cash flows, Interior Minister Sar Sokha said. Prime Minister Hun Manet ordered the suspension, he said. Sokha made the remarks during a ceremony to inaugurate a 5,000-metre-long concrete road in Prey Mlu village, Krapum Chhuk commune, Koh Andet district, Takeo province, on Saturday. The decision was made after the government conducted a review, finding that some online gambling activities streamed live from casinos could make it difficult to control cash flows and prevent technology-related crimes. He said the suspension would begin in October, during which time the government would develop a clear and effective management system for this type of gambling. He added that Prime Minister Hun Manet had instructed designated ministries and institutions to establish and strengthen measures regulating online gambling, covering the legal framework, supporting instruments, digital infrastructure and skilled human resources. Sokha said the resumption of online gambling operations would be considered only once all necessary management systems and safeguards had been fully implemented and strengthened. He warned that once the measure takes effect, casinos failing to comply with the suspension policy would face license revocation and other legal action. According to a report by the Ad-Hoc Commission for Combating Online Scams, between July 2025 and August 31 authorities across all 25 sub-national administrations shut down 663 locations. Among these, 86 were major scam centers that were closed and placed under control, paving the way for seizure in line with the law. During the 14-month operation, authorities froze more than $300 million (1.21 trillion riel) in bank accounts, together with other assets now subject to further freezing and valuation procedures. Read more at:
