Cambodian Warehouse Owner Criticizes Authorities Over Search Operation; Officials Say Action Followed Legal Procedures
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — A dispute has emerged between the owner of a logistics warehouse in Phnom Penh and local authorities after a lengthy inspection operation aimed at identifying suspected illegal imports from Thailand.
The owner of the L192 warehouse publicly criticized officials, claiming that authorities used excessive force and intimidation during a search conducted on June 11. Authorities, however, maintain that the operation was carried out in accordance with Cambodian law.
Warehouse Owner Alleges Intimidation
According to statements shared on social media, the warehouse owner said officials from Prek Pnov District conducted an inspection that lasted from early morning until late evening.
The owner stated that staff fully cooperated with investigators by providing access to inventory records, computer systems, and storage facilities. During the inspection, officials reportedly found a small quantity of Thai consumer products, including toothpaste, soap, mosquito repellent, perfume, lotion, and mouthwash.
The warehouse management argued that the products belonged to online sellers who had stored goods at the facility and were not owned by the warehouse itself.
The owner further claimed that despite cooperating with investigators, authorities accused the company of failing to assist the inspection process and brought additional personnel to the site.
Concerns Over Scale of Operation
Representatives of the warehouse questioned the size of the enforcement team deployed during the search.
Business owner In Vichet, one of the warehouse operators, said the company has been operating legally and has contributed significant tax revenue over the years.
He expressed frustration that a large number of officials were involved in an investigation concerning a relatively small quantity of products allegedly connected to customers using the warehouse's logistics services.
The owners also alleged that some members of the inspection team were not clearly identified, creating anxiety among employees and management.
Authorities Defend Investigation
When contacted regarding the criticism, Prek Pnov District Governor Thim Sam An rejected the accusations and stated that authorities were simply performing their duties under the law.
Officials have emphasized that the inspection was part of broader enforcement measures currently taking place across Cambodia.
The government has instructed local authorities nationwide to strengthen inspections targeting online business violations and investigate warehouses suspected of storing, distributing, or transporting products imported illegally from neighboring Thailand.
Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Imports
The operation comes amid increased government efforts to regulate cross-border trade and ensure compliance with customs, tax, and consumer protection regulations.
Authorities across Cambodia have been conducting inspections of warehouses, storage facilities, and online commerce operations as part of a wider campaign against smuggling and unauthorized imports.
Government officials argue that such measures are necessary to protect consumers, ensure fair competition for legal businesses, and enforce import regulations.
Investigation Continues
As of now, no formal charges have been publicly announced against the warehouse operators. The disagreement has largely centered on the conduct and scale of the inspection rather than the products discovered during the search.
The case has generated significant discussion online, with some social media users supporting stricter enforcement against illegal imports, while others have raised concerns about how inspections are carried out and their impact on legitimate businesses.
Authorities have indicated that inspections and enforcement actions related to suspected illegal imports will continue as part of the government's ongoing regulatory efforts.
Disclaimer: This article is based on statements from both the warehouse owners and government officials. Investigations remain ongoing, and authorities have not announced final findings regarding the inspected goods.
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