Cambodia Steps Up Crackdown on Cross-Border Smuggling as Court Pursues Thai Durian Tax Evasion Case
Cambodian authorities are intensifying efforts to combat illegal cross-border imports and customs tax evasion after prosecutors in Battambang charged two women in connection with the smuggling of durians from Thailand into Cambodia.
According to a statement released on May 7, 2026, by the spokesperson for the Battambang Provincial Court Prosecutor’s Office, officials are handling a criminal case involving three separate incidents of illegal durian imports that allegedly took place on April 17, 19, and 21, 2026.
Authorities said the fruit was reportedly brought into Cambodia through the O’Romduol border area, also known locally as “Kabinh,” located in O’Romduol Commune, Phnom Preuk District, Battambang Province along the Cambodia–Thailand border.
Suspects Accused of Organizing Illegal Imports
Prosecutors identified one suspect as 26-year-old Prom Soknoy, also known as “Yada,” who is currently on the run. She is accused of ordering the durians through another woman, 31-year-old Kroeun Saklane, who investigators believe coordinated the transportation of the goods into Cambodia without proper customs authorization or payment of import duties.
Officials stated that all three shipments were allegedly concealed from customs authorities and illegally imported into the country.
On May 4, 2026, officers from the Economic Crime Unit of the Battambang Provincial Police conducted an investigation and detained Kroeun Saklane for questioning.
After reviewing evidence and witness statements, prosecutors formally charged Prom Soknoy with “instigating the smuggling of tax-evading goods” under Article 28 of Cambodia’s Criminal Code and Article 75 of the Customs Law.
Meanwhile, Kroeun Saklane and other alleged accomplices were charged with “smuggling goods to evade customs duties” under Article 75 of the Customs Law.
The case has now been forwarded to an investigating judge at the Battambang Provincial Court for further legal proceedings.
Cambodia Tightens Border Enforcement
The case comes as Cambodian authorities continue strengthening enforcement against illegal imports, particularly agricultural products entering through unofficial border crossings or weakly monitored checkpoints.
Government officials have repeatedly warned that smuggling operations not only reduce state customs revenue but also create unfair competition for legitimate businesses and legal importers who comply with tax regulations.
Agricultural imports, including fruits and vegetables from neighboring countries, have become a growing focus for customs officials as Cambodia seeks to improve border control, food safety oversight, and fair market practices.
Concerns Over Illegal Agricultural Imports
Experts say illegal imports can negatively affect local farmers and traders by allowing untaxed products to be sold at lower prices in domestic markets. Authorities are also concerned that unregulated imports may bypass important inspections related to food quality and safety standards.
As investigations continue, officials say Cambodia remains committed to cracking down on cross-border smuggling networks and enforcing customs laws more strictly nationwide.
0 Comments