You don’t get a press conference.
You get 2,709 inspections.
You get doors knocked on in high-rise towers.
You get coordinated raids across every district.

And you get nearly 300 arrests in just 15 days.

That’s exactly what unfolded in Cambodia’s capital, where authorities launched one of the most sweeping crackdowns on online scam networks the country has ever seen. The message wasn’t subtle. It was deliberate, calculated, and loud:

Phnom Penh is not a playground for transnational cybercriminals.

Let’s break down what really happened—and why this operation could mark a turning point in Cambodia’s fight against online fraud and digital crime.

A 15-Day Cybercrime Crackdown Across All 14 Khans

Between February 3 and 18, Phnom Penh transformed into an active enforcement zone.

Under the leadership of Governor H.E. Khuong Sreng, the Phnom Penh Municipal Unified Command carried out inspections across all 14 Khans (districts) of the capital. This wasn’t a targeted sweep of a few suspicious buildings. It was comprehensive.

Authorities inspected:

• High-rise condominiums
• Apartment complexes
• Boreys (gated residential communities)
• Hotels and short-term rental properties

In total? 2,709 locations.

That scale matters.

Online scam operations often hide behind layers of legitimacy—luxury condos, serviced apartments, business offices that look ordinary from the outside. By sweeping thousands of sites, authorities disrupted the comfort zone these syndicates rely on.

Think of it as turning on the lights in a room where criminals believed they were invisible.

Over 21,000 Foreign Nationals Identified

During the inspections, officials identified 21,104 foreign nationals residing at the targeted premises—including 6,683 women.

Now here’s the nuance: not everyone encountered was involved in illegal activity.

Most individuals underwent routine immigration and status checks. But the sheer number reveals something important: Phnom Penh has become a magnet for foreign residents—and within that movement, cybercrime networks attempt to embed themselves.

Transnational scam syndicates often recruit individuals across borders, luring them with false job promises or coercing them into fraudulent call center operations. By identifying who is residing where, authorities are mapping the ecosystem.

Data is power.

And this operation generated a lot of it.

40 Online Scam Operations Dismantled

Here’s where the operation moved from inspection to impact.

Authorities successfully dismantled 40 specific online scam operations.

Forty.

These weren’t isolated lone actors. These were organized groups operating from coordinated locations—often equipped with digital infrastructure, communication tools, and structured hierarchies.

The raids led to the detention of 284 foreign nationals from 13 different countries, including:

• Vietnam
• China
• Myanmar
• South Korea
• Malaysia
• Nepal
• Bangladesh
• India
• Sri Lanka
• The Philippines
• Indonesia
• Pakistan
• Singapore

That diversity underscores one uncomfortable reality: online scam syndicates are transnational by design.

They recruit across borders. They target victims globally. They move operations fluidly between jurisdictions.

And that’s exactly why large-scale enforcement matters.

Fast-Tracked Prosecutions: 11 Cases Already In Court

Crackdowns mean little if they stall in bureaucracy.

This time, authorities moved quickly.

Phnom Penh Municipal Police Commissioner Gen. Chuon Narin confirmed that 11 cases have already been fast-tracked to the courts.

Prosecutors are seeking convictions for 24 suspected ringleaders and key associates:

• 22 Chinese nationals
• 1 Singaporean
• 1 Cambodian

Notice the emphasis on ringleaders.

Law enforcement isn’t just sweeping up low-level operators. The focus is on dismantling command structures—the people coordinating, financing, and directing these networks.

It’s like removing the head of a hydra rather than cutting off a single tentacle.

And that approach changes outcomes.

The Role Of The Commission For Combating Online Scams (CCOS)

This operation wasn’t random enforcement. It was coordinated through the Secretariat of the Commission for Combating Online Scams (CCOS).

The existence of a dedicated commission signals institutional commitment.

Online scams aren’t treated as petty crimes. They’re recognized as systemic threats that require interagency coordination—law enforcement, immigration, digital monitoring, intelligence gathering, and judicial action.

That kind of structure transforms sporadic crackdowns into sustained strategy.

And strategy beats reaction every time.

Prime Minister Hun Manet’s Zero-Tolerance Warning

The political backing behind this crackdown is unmistakable.

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet recently stated:

“Cambodia is not a sanctuary for tech criminals to conduct fraudulent activities or transnational crimes.”

That’s not diplomatic language. That’s deterrent language.

He went further, warning that individuals or entities backing these syndicates would face the “highest penalties” without exception or intervention.

Translation?

No protection. No interference. No special treatment.

When leadership draws a hard line publicly, it signals internal alignment. Law enforcement operates with clearer mandate. Prosecutors act with stronger backing.

And criminals reassess their risk calculations.

Why Phnom Penh Became A Target For Cybercrime Syndicates

Let’s address the bigger question: why here?

Like many rapidly developing Southeast Asian cities, Phnom Penh has seen explosive growth in real estate, foreign residency, and digital connectivity.

High-rise condominiums. Expanding internet infrastructure. Growing foreign communities.

To legitimate businesses, these are signs of opportunity. To cybercriminals, they can look like camouflage.

Scam networks thrive where anonymity is possible and oversight is fragmented. But once inspections become systematic and intelligence-driven, that anonymity evaporates.

This 15-day blitz disrupted the perception that Cambodia might be a low-risk operating zone for online fraud.

And perception matters in criminal ecosystems.

The Global Impact Of Online Scam Syndicates

Online scam networks are not victimless enterprises.

They target retirees. Small business owners. Students. Families. Often across continents.

Investment scams, romance fraud, crypto deception, phishing operations—these crimes extract billions globally every year.

By dismantling 40 operations, Phnom Penh authorities didn’t just act locally. They disrupted pipelines feeding international fraud schemes.

That ripple effect extends far beyond Cambodia’s borders.

When one operational hub collapses, victim numbers drop—at least temporarily.

Enforcement, Deterrence, And Long-Term Reform

Here’s the real test: sustainability.

A 15-day crackdown generates headlines. But can it reshape the environment long-term?

That depends on three factors:

1. Continued intelligence gathering
2. Judicial follow-through
3. Preventive regulatory reform

Enforcement is like pruning a tree. It removes visible branches. But if roots remain untouched, growth resumes.

The current strategy appears to be targeting both branches and roots—through arrests, prosecutions, and institutional coordination.

But cybercrime evolves quickly. New tools emerge. Tactics adapt.

The key will be staying one step ahead.

A Clear Signal To International Investors

There’s another dimension to this operation—economic reputation.

Countries battling perceptions of cybercrime risk often face investor hesitation. No multinational firm wants its brand associated with fraud hotspots.

By executing a visible, large-scale crackdown, Phnom Penh sends a signal to global investors:

We’re serious about digital security.
We’re serious about law enforcement.
We’re serious about protecting economic integrity.

That narrative strengthens investor confidence.

Security and economic growth are intertwined. One supports the other.

The Human Dimension

Behind the statistics—2,709 inspections, 284 arrests, 21,104 identified individuals—there are human stories.

Some detainees may have been recruited under false pretenses. Others may have knowingly participated in fraudulent operations. Investigations will determine individual roles.

But the broader point remains: dismantling scam networks prevents future victims.

Every call center shut down represents potential victims spared.

That’s the invisible success metric.

Is This A Turning Point?

So, is this crackdown a temporary sweep—or the beginning of a sustained transformation?

The scale suggests something larger than optics.

Covering all 14 Khans. Inspecting thousands of properties. Fast-tracking prosecutions. Publicly warning financial backers.

These are structural moves.

They indicate an ecosystem-wide reset.

But cybercrime is adaptive. It migrates. It rebrands. It decentralizes.

The real measure of success will be what happens next month. And the month after that.

Final Thoughts: No Sanctuary For Digital Crime

Phnom Penh’s 15-day blitz wasn’t just about arrests.

It was about narrative.

It reframed Cambodia not as a passive battleground for online scams—but as an active enforcer of digital order.

With 40 scam operations dismantled, nearly 300 arrests, and prosecutions underway, authorities have made one thing unmistakably clear:

Cambodia does not intend to be a sanctuary for tech criminals.

In the digital age, crime moves at the speed of Wi-Fi. Enforcement must move faster.

For now, Phnom Penh has proven it can.

The question is whether this momentum becomes permanent policy.

If it does, the capital’s reputation—and its digital future—may look very different in the years ahead.

FAQ

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In a significant breakthrough, an influential Cambodian figure—known locally as an oknha—has been arrested following the shutdown of a major scam compound. The operation, carried out through close cooperation between Cambodian authorities and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), signals a new era in the fight against cross-border cybercrime.

So what does this mean for Cambodia, the United States, and the broader war on online scams? Let’s break it down.

A Major Arrest Signals a Turning Point

Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed during a February 19 interview with Fox News that an unnamed oknha had been arrested in connection with a large-scale scam compound.

If you’re unfamiliar with the term, an oknha refers to a wealthy and influential Cambodian businessperson who has been granted an honorary title. These figures often hold significant economic and political influence.

Hun Manet emphasized that the arrest came as a direct result of intensified cooperation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, particularly in combating cross-border crimes like online scams.

“We have recently worked with the FBI cracking on a major case involving one of the oknhas,” Hun Manet said. “We arrested him, and we closed down one of the big compounds. It is a good success story with the FBI.”

That’s not just a statement—it’s a strategic signal.

Cambodia and the FBI: A Growing Security Partnership

Let’s zoom out for a moment.

Why is the FBI so involved in Cambodian cybercrime cases?

Because online scams don’t respect borders.

Victims often reside in the United States, Europe, or Australia, while operations are run from Southeast Asia. These networks move money across jurisdictions in seconds. They recruit victims through social media, dating apps, crypto platforms—you name it.

To dismantle such operations, international collaboration is essential.

On November 1, 2025, Hun Manet held a phone call with Kash Patel, pledging stronger cooperation between Cambodia and U.S. authorities to clamp down on transnational crime. That commitment is now bearing fruit.

Think of it like tightening a net around a fast-moving school of fish. Alone, one country might miss them. Together, the net closes.

The Prince Group Sanctions and Escalating Pressure

Shortly after high-level discussions between Phnom Penh and Washington, the United States imposed sanctions on Prince Group and its associates.

Sanctions aren’t symbolic gestures—they’re economic pressure tools. They restrict financial transactions, freeze assets, and limit international business activities. In cases involving allegations of money laundering and cybercrime facilitation, sanctions serve as both punishment and deterrent.

This move underscored growing international scrutiny over alleged cybercrime-linked enterprises operating within Cambodia.

And the pressure didn’t stop there.

Arrest of Tycoon Ly Kuong: Technology Fraud and Human Trafficking Allegations

In January 2026, Cambodian authorities detained 50-year-old tycoon Ly Kuong. The Phnom Penh court accused him of involvement in:

• Technology fraud
• Money laundering
• Human trafficking
• Using casinos and hotels to lure victims into cyber scams

These are serious charges. And they highlight a darker side of scam compounds—many victims are not only financial targets but sometimes coerced workers forced to run scams under abusive conditions.

Scam compounds often function like digital sweatshops. Behind every phishing email or romance scam message may be someone working under pressure, surveillance, or threats.

This crackdown isn’t just about protecting foreign bank accounts. It’s about human lives.

Joint Cambodia-China Operation: International Cooperation Expands

The enforcement momentum continued in early January when Chen Zhi, founder and chairman of Prince Holding Group, along with Xu Ji Liang and Shao Ji Hui, were arrested and repatriated to China.

Cambodia’s Interior Ministry confirmed that the arrests resulted from a coordinated joint operation between Cambodian and Chinese authorities.

This is critical.

It shows Cambodia isn’t relying on one partnership alone. Whether cooperating with the FBI or working with Chinese law enforcement, Phnom Penh is positioning itself as an active player in dismantling international scam networks.

Cybercrime is global. So is the response.

Cambodia’s Ambitious Deadline to Eliminate Online Scams

Here’s where things get bold.

Cambodia has set an ambitious deadline: eliminate online scams nationwide by April.

Phnom Penh has committed to targeting operations across 14 districts and dismantling mastermind-level networks by March 30.

That’s not incremental reform—that’s an aggressive timeline.

But can it be done?

Eliminating online scams entirely is like trying to stamp out a wildfire in dry season. You don’t just put out visible flames; you must dig into the embers beneath the surface.

Success will depend on:

• Sustained international intelligence sharing
• Financial transparency reforms
• Local enforcement consistency
• Protection for trafficking victims
• Prosecution of high-level organizers

Still, recent arrests suggest that Cambodian authorities are willing to move beyond symbolic gestures.

Why This Matters for the United States and Global Victims

If you’re reading this from the U.S., you might wonder: why should this matter to me?

Because many online scam victims are American.

From crypto investment schemes to romance fraud, billions of dollars are siphoned annually from individuals who often never see their money again. These scams don’t just drain bank accounts—they shatter trust.

When Cambodian authorities collaborate with the FBI to dismantle a major scam compound, they’re not just enforcing domestic law. They’re protecting international victims.

It’s a reminder that digital crime is borderless—but so is accountability.

Political and Diplomatic Implications

There’s also a diplomatic dimension here.

Cambodia’s enhanced cooperation with the United States signals a warming security relationship. In recent years, geopolitical narratives have often focused on Cambodia’s ties with China. However, joint enforcement operations with the FBI suggest a more balanced foreign policy approach.

Security cooperation can serve as a bridge even when political differences exist.

And let’s be honest: cybercrime is one issue where interests align. No country benefits from becoming a haven for scam networks.

Transparency Questions Remain

Despite the major arrest announcement, the identity of the oknha involved has not been publicly disclosed.

Kiripost reportedly reached out to government spokesperson Pen Bona for additional information but did not receive a response at the time of publication.

This raises important transparency questions:

• Will authorities release further details?
• Will court proceedings be open to public scrutiny?
• How deep do these networks go?

Public trust hinges not just on arrests—but on accountability.

The Bigger Picture: Cambodia’s Reputation and Reform

For years, international watchdogs and media outlets have criticized Southeast Asia’s role in housing scam compounds. Cambodia, in particular, has faced scrutiny over alleged cybercrime hubs operating within certain regions.

This latest crackdown appears to be part of a broader strategy to clean up that reputation.

Think of it like renovating a building after years of neglect. You can’t just repaint the front door—you need structural repairs.

If Cambodia follows through on its elimination pledge and continues collaborating with international partners, it could reshape its global image from a perceived hotspot of online scams to a country actively fighting cybercrime.

That transformation won’t happen overnight. But the foundation appears to be shifting.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment in the Fight Against Cybercrime

The arrest of an influential oknha, the closure of a major scam compound, and coordinated actions with both the FBI and Chinese authorities mark a significant moment for Cambodia.

This isn’t just a headline—it’s a test.

A test of political will.
A test of international cooperation.
A test of whether high-level actors can truly be held accountable.

Will Cambodia meet its April deadline to eliminate online scams? That remains to be seen.

But one thing is clear: the crackdown has begun, and the world is watching.

And in the digital age, where crime travels at the speed of light, coordinated action may be the only force fast enough to stop it.

FAQ

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The visit, scheduled for mid-February, is aimed at restoring international confidence and highlighting Cambodia as a secure destination for foreign investment, officials said.

The announcement followed a meeting in Seoul between Cambodia’s ambassador to South Korea, Khuon Phon Rattanak, and Park Joo-bong, chairman of South Korea’s Daejoo KC Group.

During the meeting, Ambassador Rattanak briefed the South Korean side on bilateral relations, including cooperation in trade, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. He also outlined efforts by the Royal Government of Cambodia to repair the country’s international image after a surge in reported cases of online scams and cybercrime over the past year.

“The embassy has been actively engaging with South Korean media to ensure accurate reporting on the situation in Cambodia,” Ambassador Rattanak said, adding that the government has stepped up enforcement to suppress online crime and improve security for investors and visitors.

The delegation, led by Mr Park, will comprise about 20 members, including representatives from South Korean media outlets. Officials said the inclusion of journalists is intended to provide a transparent, firsthand assessment of Cambodia’s security conditions.

Mr Park welcomed Cambodia’s cooperation in addressing transnational crime, saying South Korea continues to view Cambodia as an important regional partner.

“This visit will allow investors to see the investment environment firsthand,” he said. “The media will then be able to report on the actual conditions on the ground and provide a clearer picture to the Korean public.”

The Cambodian Embassy in Seoul said it is coordinating with relevant ministries in Phnom Penh to arrange meetings between the delegation and senior government officials during the visit.

FAQs

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Strategic Strike on a Cyber-Fraud Hub

Coordinated by H.E. General Sar Thet, Commissioner General of the National Police, and led by Deputy Commissioners Lieutenant General Chiv Phally and Lieutenant General Moung Sothea, the raid deployed approximately 700 specialized officers. The operation focused on 22 buildings within the A7 complex, located near the Vietnamese border, which were suspected of housing sophisticated “call center” gangs.

The breakdown of the 2,044 foreigners detained reveals the diverse and transnational nature of the syndicate:

• China: 1,792 (including 5 from Taiwan)
• Myanmar: 179
• Vietnam: 177
• India: 36
• Nepal: 30
• Others: Individuals from Laos (2), Malaysia (1), and Mexico (1).

“Hell for Criminals”: A Firm Policy Stance

H.E. Touch Sokhak, Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy. Echoing a famous warning from Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, he stated, “Cambodia is not a safe haven for criminals; it is a hell for criminals.”

This operation follows the landmark arrest and extradition of high-profile tycoon Chen Zhi earlier in January 2026. As the head of the sanctioned Prince Group, Chen Zhi’s fall has triggered a mass exodus from scam compounds across the country. The Royal Government of Cambodia, under Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, has designated the suppression of online scams as a top national priority, resulting in over 5,100 arrests and 4,500 deportations in the last seven months alone.

Impact on National Stability and International Reputation

For the international community and foreign investors, this sustained crackdown is a vital step toward restoring Cambodia’s reputation. By dismantling these multi-billion-dollar fraud networks, the government is:

• Securing the Digital Economy: Protecting the integrity of the FinTech and e-commerce sectors.
• Ending Human Rights Abuses: Addressing international concerns regarding human trafficking and forced labor within scam compounds.
• Strengthening Regional Ties: Actively sharing intelligence with partners like South Korea, India, and China to disrupt cross-border criminal logistics.

H.E. Abhisantibindit Sar Sokha, Minister of Interior, has placed online scam suppression among the ministry’s top six priorities, warning that any official found complicit or negligent in these crimes will face immediate dismissal and legal action

FAQ: The Bavet Casino Raid & Cybercrime Crackdown

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1. De-escalating the Cambodia-Thailand Border: A $25 Million Peace Package

The most immediate priority of this aid is the stabilization of the Cambodia-Thailand border. Following tensions that culminated in the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration in late 2025, the U.S. is now backing the peace process with tangible financial support.

• Humanitarian Relief ($15 Million): Dedicated to supporting displaced persons affected by recent border armed conflicts, ensuring civilians can safely return to their homes.
• Demining and UXO Clearance ($10 Million): A critical investment in land safety, allowing for the resumption of the Joint Boundary Commission’s work to formally demarcate the border.
• Diplomatic Milestone: The U.S. welcomed the return of 18 Cambodian soldiers, a gesture seen as a vital step toward a permanent ceasefire.

2. Combatting the Digital Threat: $10 Million for Cyber Defense

Recognizing the surge in technology-based fraud across Southeast Asia, the U.S. has allocated an additional $10 million specifically for cybercrime prevention.

• Targeting Scam Operations: This funding will bolster Cambodia’s law enforcement capacity to disrupt online scam centers and “pig-butchering” operations that have plagued the region.
• Capacity Building: The aid will focus on advanced technology training and cross-border intelligence sharing to track transnational criminal networks.

3. A New Era for U.S.-Cambodia Relations?

Beyond security and humanitarian aid, the Saturday meeting highlighted an expanding horizon for bilateral cooperation. Both nations agreed to move past traditional silos to strengthen ties in:

• Trade and Investment: Opening doors for U.S. firms to explore the Cambodian market with greater confidence in regional stability.
• Defense and People-to-People Exchanges: Deepening the cultural and security-based connections between Washington and Phnom Penh.

Orkun Santepheap’s Perspective: Why This Matters for Investors

The reaffirmation of U.S. support is more than just a diplomatic gesture; it is a risk-reduction signal for the private sector. Border stability ensures that logistical corridors remain open, while the $10 million cybercrime package addresses one of the biggest reputational and security hurdles for Cambodia’s digital economy. If you are an investor looking at 2026, these developments suggest a more predictable and secure business environment.

Recommended Reading

• Cambodia’s 2026 FDI Outlook – Analyze how regional stability is attracting more U.S. investment.

FAQ

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During a year-end meeting on Wednesday, the Senior Minister made it clear that the government is determined to wipe out transnational crime and online scams from the country.

New Strategy for 2026

To stay ahead of criminals who use advanced technology, H.E. Chhay Sinarith outlined several key goals for officials:

• Sharper Investigations: Officers must improve their skills to find and break up criminal networks.
• Proactive Research: Instead of just reacting to crimes, the team will focus on “strategic research” to stop threats before they happen.
• Expert Training: Officials will receive continuous training to keep up with fast-changing digital trends.
• Stronger Partnerships: Cambodia will work more closely with private companies and international partners to catch criminals who operate across borders.

A Nationwide Sweep

This new push follows a massive government campaign that began on July 14, 2025. Under this mandate, authorities have the power to take the strictest legal actions against the masterminds and leaders of online scam operations.

The main goal of these efforts is to ensure that Cambodia remains a safe place for the public and that social order is maintained in the digital age.

READ MORE: Cambodia’s Crackdown on Online Scams Nets Thousands

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The announcement came from H.E. Santepundit Chhay Sinarith, Cambodia’s Senior Minister leading the charge against online crime, following a key meeting this morning with H.E. Park Il, South Korea’s Ambassador for Special Mission. The message was clear: Cambodia is fully ready to coordinate.

This isn’t just routine diplomacy; it’s a strategic move to clean up the region. The core discussion wasn’t about handshakes, but about strengthening cross-border security cooperation to effectively corner criminals operating across continents.

Minister Chhay Sinarith highlighted the solid partnership between the two nations, tracing this new initiative back to an agreement made by the top leaders on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. They recognized that the current problem demanded a dedicated response, agreeing in principle to form a Joint Task Force—a special unit solely focused on tracking and neutralizing these high-tech criminal networks.

While Cambodia’s authorities have certainly delivered some heavy blows to online fraud operations recently, the Minister was careful to inject a dose of realism. He acknowledged that while the “significant strides” are commendable, completely wiping out these complex, evolving crimes isn’t a simple smash-and-grab. It requires sustained effort, shared intelligence, and continued collaboration from every single stakeholder involved. This joint task force shows that both nations are ready to settle in for the long fight.

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In a statement posted on social media this evening, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet shared that he held a telephone conversation with Mr. Kash Patel, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the United States.

“We highly appreciate the fruitful results of the longstanding cooperation between Cambodia’s security agencies and the FBI in preventing and combating transnational crimes such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, homicide, extortion, financial crimes, and cyber scams,” Prime Minister Hun Manet stated.

Shared Commitment to Security and Law Enforcement

During the conversation, both leaders praised the ongoing joint efforts that have led to improved intelligence sharing, enhanced investigative coordination, and the disruption of criminal networks operating across borders.

The Prime Minister noted that this partnership has played a crucial role in safeguarding public safety and strengthening rule of law, aligning with Cambodia’s broader efforts to combat organized and technology-driven crimes.

He further emphasized the importance of continued collaboration:

“Moving forward, we agreed to continue strengthening the cooperation between Cambodia’s security institutions and the FBI in order to maintain security and safety for both our peoples and countries.”

Expanding U.S.–Cambodia Security Cooperation

The renewed dialogue highlights the strategic importance of Cambodia–U.S. law enforcement ties, especially in addressing emerging threats such as financial fraud, digital crime, and regional trafficking operations.

Analysts view this engagement as part of Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to enhance international cooperation and align its security frameworks with global standards, particularly as the country faces the challenges of digital transformation and regional criminal networks.

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The commendation was delivered by the delegation, led by H.E. Kim Seok-Ki, Member of the National Assembly and Chair of the Foreign Affairs and National Unification Committee, during a field visit to former scam operation sites on October 23, 2025.

On-Site Inspection and Evidence Review

The Korean lawmakers visited the Sopheakmit Residence in Bati district, Takeo province, which previously served as the headquarters for an online scam network before being recently shut down by Cambodian authorities.

During their inspection, the delegation observed Cambodian law enforcement teams conducting evidence analysis on a massive cache of electronics confiscated from prior operations. The seized materials included 272 desktop computers, 44 CPUs, 44 monitors, nine laptops, 1,305 mobile phones, and two iPads.

The South Korean lawmakers acknowledged the Royal Government’s strong commitment and effective inter-agency cooperation in investigating and dismantling these criminal enterprises. They specifically lauded the determination and effective actions of Cambodian authorities in suppressing online fraud, underscoring the government’s firm stance against transnational cybercrime.

Bilateral Cooperation and Repatriation

H.E. Kim Seok-Ki also expressed appreciation for Cambodia’s swift facilitation of the repatriation of South Korean nationals who were either victims of or involved in the scams.

Extending thanks to Cambodian law enforcement, H.E. Kim urged continued joint efforts to apprehend offenders and provide timely assistance to South Korean victims. He affirmed his intention to share the positive findings of the visit upon his return to Seoul, pledging to encourage the Korean police to strengthen cooperation with their Cambodian counterparts to prevent the recurrence of such online fraud.

Aligning with National Campaign

The visit to Takeo followed a stop on October 22, 2025, at the former scam site known as the “Seh Sar Building” in Phnom Penh. An operation conducted there in July 2025 led to the arrest of 57 South Korean suspects, 29 Chinese suspects, and several Cambodian nationals, along with significant seizures of digital equipment.

These large-scale crackdowns are part of a nationwide campaign against cyber scams launched by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet. On July 14, 2025, the Prime Minister issued a nine-point directive requiring strict and responsible enforcement by provincial governors, police commissioners, and relevant ministries, emphasizing that non-compliance would lead to reassignment or removal from office.

Cambodian authorities have vowed to pursue the strictest legal action, without exception, against all masterminds and individuals involved in technology-based fraud cases.

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