Cambodia launches nationwide crackdown on online scams as suspected fraud hubs empty out

CAMBODIA: Cambodia is preparing to roll out a nationwide operation targeting online scams, illegal gambling and related cybercrime, according to official statements from multiple government bodies.

The move comes as authorities pledge to maintain a high-pressure approach to combat telecom fraud and protect public order and the country’s international image.

On 12 January, the Phnom Penh municipal government convened a special meeting to deploy measures aimed at cracking down on online scam operations.

Officials said the operation would involve coordinated enforcement across multiple agencies and regions. Key provinces, including Preah Sihanouk, have also been instructed to make parallel preparations.

The Ministry of Interior has held several high-level meetings in recent weeks to direct nationwide anti-scam efforts, signalling a renewed push to dismantle organised scam networks operating across the country.

Zero-Tolerance Stance on Telecom Fraud

On 11 January, the Secretariat of Cambodia’s Committee for Combating Online Scams stated that authorities would continue to maintain a high-pressure enforcement posture, adopting a “zero tolerance” approach towards telecom fraud crimes.

The committee said operations would not be limited to short-term campaigns, but would be sustained to prevent criminal syndicates from regrouping.

Authorities noted that online scam networks often operate across borders and rely on complex organisational structures, making continuous enforcement necessary.

Officials added that online gambling platforms, scam call centres and related money-laundering activities would remain key targets of the nationwide operation.

Suspected Scam Hubs See Sudden Departures

The announcement of intensified enforcement coincided with reports of mass departures from suspected scam compounds in Sihanoukville, a coastal city long identified as a hotspot for cyberfraud activities.

According to media reports, hundreds of people were seen leaving buildings linked to alleged scam operations, carrying suitcases, computer equipment, furniture and even pets.

Departures were observed at locations including Amber Casino, with individuals boarding tuk-tuks, private vehicles and tourist coaches.

Some workers said they were instructed by their employers to leave immediately, while others appeared uncertain about their next destination.

Observers reported that similar scenes took place at multiple sites across the country in the days leading up to anticipated law enforcement actions.

Background of Transnational Scam Operations

Cambodia has been identified as a major hub in Southeast Asia’s transnational cyberfraud industry, which targets victims worldwide through online romance scams, fake investment schemes and cryptocurrency fraud.

While such operations initially focused on Chinese-speaking victims, criminal groups have expanded into multiple languages.

International organisations estimate that global losses from online scams reached up to US$37 billion in 2023, with at least 100,000 people believed to be working in scam operations in Cambodia alone.

Some individuals involved are reported to be willing participants, while others are foreign nationals who were allegedly trafficked, confined and forced to work under threats of violence.

Enforcement Actions and Official Claims

Cambodian authorities claimed that recent enforcement efforts have already yielded results. The country’s anti-scam commission stated that it had raided 118 scam locations and arrested around 5,000 people over the past six months.

Prime Minister Hun Manet has publicly pledged to eliminate cyber scam-related crimes, while authorities have tightened oversight on businesses linked to suspected scam activities.

Measures have included ordering the liquidation of financial institutions and restricting property transactions tied to affiliated companies.

Despite these actions, some observers noted that movements out of suspected scam compounds appeared to occur before the arrival of authorities, raising questions about the timing and effectiveness of enforcement efforts.

Arrest of alleged scam kingpin accelerates regional crackdown

The nationwide crackdown follows the high-profile arrest in Cambodia and subsequent extradition to China of Chen Zhi, an internationally sanctioned figure accused of leading a major scam syndicate.

Before being indicted last year by US authorities—who said his Prince Group conglomerate was a front for a transnational cybercrime network—the Chinese-born businessman operated multiple gambling-linked hotels in Sihanoukville.

Following Chen’s deportation last week, Beijing labelled him the “ringleader of a major cross-border gambling and fraud syndicate” and urged his associates to surrender voluntarily.

China’s Ministry of Public Security said fugitives who turn themselves in before 15 Feb and “truthfully confess their crimes” could receive lighter or reduced sentences, while warning that those who refuse would face an “all-out” pursuit.