Cambodia Cracks Down on Online Scam Networks, Arrests 70 Foreign Suspects
Cambodian authorities have intensified their nationwide crackdown on cybercrime after arresting a total of 70 foreign nationals linked to alleged online scam operations in Phnom Penh and Svay Rieng province.
The coordinated raids targeted multiple properties suspected of being used as illegal “Online Scams” centers, where operators allegedly conducted fraudulent investment schemes, fake e-commerce activities, and online deception targeting victims abroad.
61 Chinese Nationals Arrested in Phnom Penh
The largest operation took place in Phnom Penh on May 26 under the direction of city authorities and law enforcement officials.
Authorities from two district administrations launched separate raids that resulted in the arrest of 61 Chinese nationals, including six women, suspected of involvement in organized cyber fraud activities.
Raid in 7 Makara District
In the first case, officials from 7 Makara District raided a residence located on Street 163 in Veal Vong commune.
Police detained six Taiwanese Chinese suspects, including one woman, and seized multiple electronic devices believed to have been used in scam operations, including:
Mobile phones
Desktop computers
Monitors
CPU units
Major Bust in Chbar Ampov
A second and much larger operation was carried out in Chbar Ampov district at three separate locations inside Borey Peng Huot in Veal Sbov commune.
Authorities arrested 55 Chinese nationals, including five women, during the operation.
Investigators confiscated a large amount of equipment, including:
98 all-in-one computers
5 laptops
9 monitors
7 CPU units
113 mobile phones
WiFi devices
Foreign SIM cards
According to preliminary findings, the suspects allegedly used Cambodia as a base to operate sophisticated online fraud schemes targeting victims primarily in China and Taiwan.
Officials said the scams reportedly involved:
Fake online shopping websites
Fraudulent investment offers
Fake job recruitment schemes
Digital financial scams
All suspects and seized evidence have been transferred to Phnom Penh Municipal Police for further legal proceedings.
Separate Online Scam Raid in Svay Rieng
In a separate operation earlier this week, police in Svay Rieng province also dismantled a suspected scam center operating from a rental property in Bavet City near the Vietnam border.
Authorities arrested nine foreign nationals, including:
Eight Malaysians (one woman)
One Vietnamese citizen
The raid was conducted through cooperation between provincial police, local authorities, and national security units.
Officers also seized computers, monitors, mobile phones, and additional digital equipment allegedly connected to the cybercrime operation.
The property has been temporarily sealed while investigators continue gathering evidence.
Cambodia Expands Efforts Against Cybercrime
The latest arrests come as Cambodia increases pressure on illegal cybercrime syndicates operating across the country.
Authorities have repeatedly pledged to strengthen enforcement against transnational scam operations that exploit digital technology to target victims overseas.
Officials say strict legal action will be taken against all individuals involved, with no exceptions.
Growing Regional Concern Over Online Scam Operations
Online scam compounds have become a major concern across Southeast Asia in recent years, with criminal groups using sophisticated technology and international networks to carry out fraud schemes worth millions of dollars.
Governments throughout the region are now working together more closely to combat cyber fraud, human trafficking linked to scam centers, and cross-border criminal activity.
Disclaimer
This article is based on official statements released by Cambodian authorities and ongoing investigations. Charges against suspects remain allegations until proven in court.
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