Cambodian enforcement agencies have achieved another milestone in their 2026 nationwide “security sweep,” detaining 77 foreign nationals during a high-profile raid on a suspected cyber-scam operation in Preah Sihanouk province. This latest operation underscores the Royal Government’s intensified commitment to dismantling illicit tech hubs and restoring investor confidence in Cambodia’s coastal special economic zones.
Key Highlights
- Major Detention: 77 foreign nationals were taken into custody for suspected involvement in online fraud and illegal residency.
- Evidence Seized: Authorities confiscated 77 desktop computers and dozens of mobile devices used for illicit digital activities.
- Target Location: The raid focused on the “Silong Bay Borey” complex in Sangkat Ream, Kampong Som city.
- Policy Alignment: Official reports from AKP indicate that the operation was executed in strict accordance with a recent Royal Government sub-decree aimed at tightening oversight of foreign residents.
Dismantling the Digital Fraud Network
Led by Provincial Deputy Governor Mr. Min Kompheak on Monday afternoon, the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Unified Command executed a precision raid on the Silong Bay Borey site. The operation is part of a broader, zero-tolerance strategy to eliminate the “scam factory” narrative that has previously hindered the region’s economic reputation.
The state news agency (AKP) highlighted that the evidence and suspects have been transferred to provincial police headquarters for exhaustive investigation. This move is not just a local law enforcement action; it is a signal to the international community—particularly stakeholders in the US and UK—that Cambodia is proactively “cleaning house” to ensure a safe, law-based environment for legitimate business.
A New Era of Oversight: The January Sub-Decree
The timing of this raid is significant. It aligns with the new “Management of Security and Safety at Collective Residential Premises” sub-decree signed by Prime Minister Hun Manet.
Analogy: Think of this sub-decree as a “Digital Firewall” for the physical world. It forces landlords and property managers to act as the first line of defense, ensuring that every resident is legally registered, effectively blocking the “shadow manpower” that fuels cybercrime syndicates.
Impact on Regional Stability
Based on data released by AKP, authorities have conducted nearly 200 raids nationwide in early 2026, leading to a reported 50% decrease in suspected scam activity since the start of the year. By targeting hubs in Preah Sihanouk, the government is reclaiming its coastal assets for high-value tourism and sustainable investment.
- Public Security: Reducing the concentration of undocumented foreigners lowers the risk of associated transnational crimes.
- Reputation Management: Demonstrating tangible success in dismantling scam networks is key to Cambodia’s goal of being removed from international watchlists.
- Investment Climate: A transparent and safe digital landscape is essential for the US and UK investors looking to enter the ASEAN market via Cambodia.
Executive Summary
| Feature | Operation Details |
| Location | Sangkat Ream, Preah Sihanouk Province |
| Date | March 9, 2026 |
| Detainees | 77 Foreign Nationals |
| Equipment Seized | 77 Computers, dozens of mobile phones |
| Legal Basis | Sub-decree on Collective Residential Premises |
| Current Status | Investigation ongoing at Provincial Police HQ |
FAQ: People Also Ask
It is a residential and commercial site in Sangkat Ream that was suspected of hosting an unlicensed tech hub used for online fraud. Authorities are currently investigating the property owners under the new 2026 liability laws.
Official reports from AKP indicate that they are being processed for illegal residency and fraud. Those found without valid visas or work permits will face immediate deportation and a permanent ban from re-entering the Kingdom.
The ongoing crackdowns have significantly improved the security landscape. By dismantling these illicit hubs, the government is making room for legitimate developers and tech firms from the West.