Background
On 20 March 2026 in Phnom Penh, National Police Commissioner General Sar Thet issued instructions to police forces to continue clearing online scam crimes conducted through technology systems. The directive is framed as an implementation of high-level orders from Prime Minister Hun Manet, with the stated objective of restoring Cambodia’s image on the international stage.
The instructions were delivered during a ceremony to announce the transfer of duties and appointments of senior police commanders at the General Commissariat of National Police. At this event, Senior Colonel Sieung Sen was appointed as Deputy National Police Commissioner and Lieutenant General Sen Sophap was appointed as Head of the Department for Combating Commercial Gambling Crimes.
Scope of Application
The instructions apply to all officers and specialized forces under the National Police involved in operations targeting online scam crimes. The guidance covers the conduct of operations to suppress online scams and related technology-based fraud, and extends to cooperation with other relevant institutions engaged in these operations.
Key Provisions or Decisions
Commissioner General Sar Thet reiterated that police forces must:
- Continue operational campaigns to clear and suppress online scam crimes in accordance with orders from the Royal Government of Cambodia.
- Carry out missions with strong ethics, professionalism, and adherence to the role of law enforcement officers.
- Respect the chain of command and comply with leadership directives at all levels.
- Avoid any form of inaction or passivity within the framework of specialized operations.
He clarified that the operations against online scams are not limited to the Khmer New Year period and that the Royal Government intends to maintain a high level of commitment to eradicating such crimes on an ongoing basis. The directive also highlights that the international community has taken note of Cambodia’s efforts in this area, and calls for continued good cooperation between the National Police and other relevant entities.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The continued and long-term focus on suppressing online scam crimes indicates an ongoing enforcement environment targeting technology-based fraud. Businesses operating in sectors exposed to online transactions, digital platforms, or commercial gaming-related activities may expect sustained attention from law enforcement authorities. Compliance with existing criminal and related regulations, and cooperation with police investigations into online scams, remain important to avoid being implicated in enforcement operations.
Official Source
The information is based on an announcement by the National Police of Cambodia, with additional detail available on the official police website at police.gov.kh.
Related Developments
This topic is part of ongoing policy and enforcement developments related to cybercrime and online fraud in Cambodia, including scam investigations, regulatory responses, and cross-border cooperation.
