Phnom Penh Authorities Inspect 33 Warehouses, Seize Imported Frozen Meat and Question Five Individuals

Phnom Penh Authorities Inspect 33 Warehouses, Seize Imported Frozen Meat and Question Five Individuals

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Authorities in Phnom Penh have launched a major inspection operation targeting warehouses suspected of storing and distributing imported frozen food products, resulting in the discovery of large quantities of frozen meat and the questioning of five individuals.

The operation, conducted on June 12, involved a coordinated effort between the administrations of all 14 districts in Phnom Penh, the Phnom Penh Municipal Police, and the Consumer Protection, Competition and Fraud Repression Directorate-General (CCF). The inspections were carried out under legal supervision from the Phnom Penh Municipal Court.

Large-Scale Inspection Across the Capital

Officials inspected a total of 33 warehouse locations believed to be involved in the storage, transportation, and distribution of frozen food products reportedly originating from Thailand.

The crackdown was ordered by Phnom Penh Governor Khuong Sreng, who also serves as head of the city's Unified Command Committee. Authorities said the operation aims to ensure food safety, verify import documentation, and prevent the circulation of potentially unauthorized products in local markets.

According to municipal spokesperson Dao Samphos, investigators discovered several warehouses containing frozen food products imported from Thailand, while some facilities were unable to immediately provide complete documentation regarding the origin and legality of their goods.

Frozen Products Found at Multiple Locations

One of the inspected sites was a warehouse operating under the name CSPB (Cambodia) in Dangkor District. Authorities reported finding multiple categories of frozen poultry products, including marinated chicken wings, chicken drumsticks, processed chicken meat, sausages, ham, and other frozen food items. Investigators also recorded dozens of industrial freezers at the facility.

At another location in Tuol Kork area, officials discovered more than 1,200 kilograms of frozen processed food products, including various types of meatballs and frozen snacks allegedly imported from Thailand.

A separate inspection at two large warehouses along Street 598 in Russey Keo District did not uncover frozen meat products. However, authorities reportedly found numerous imported goods believed to have originated from Thailand and are examining whether proper import authorization existed.

Nearly 30 Tons of Frozen Meat Under Review

One of the most significant discoveries occurred at a warehouse belonging to LUX Company in Kamboul District.

Investigators found two large freezer containers storing approximately 30 tons of frozen meat products. Warehouse representatives stated that the products originated from Brazil and Canada and provided some supporting documentation, including invoices and health certificates.

However, officials said documentation related to the import process remained incomplete, prompting prosecutors to order the temporary sealing of the freezer units while further verification takes place.

Authorities have granted warehouse operators one week to provide additional paperwork to clarify the products' legal import status.

Five Individuals Questioned

As part of the investigation, authorities temporarily sealed the warehouses and freezer facilities involved and escorted five owners and managers for further questioning by the Economic Crime Unit of the Phnom Penh Municipal Police.

Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that legal procedures will determine whether any violations related to import regulations, product storage, or distribution laws have occurred.

Focus on Consumer Protection

The operation highlights Cambodia's increasing efforts to strengthen food safety oversight and consumer protection measures. Authorities say inspections of warehouses, food distribution centers, and imported products will continue as part of broader efforts to ensure compliance with national regulations.

Government officials have urged businesses involved in food imports and distribution to maintain complete documentation and comply fully with import and public health requirements.