Background
The National Police of Cambodia conducts criminal investigations and operational raids to disrupt networks that use digital platforms for cross-border fraud and related criminal activity. National Police reported the arrest of 1,332 individuals linked to online scams during the first two weeks of June 2026.
Authorities stated the multi-site operation covered 78 locations across 12 capital-provinces and generated multiple procedural outcomes: 133 people were transferred to the General Directorate of Immigration, 87 suspects had case files prepared for court referral, and 1,112 individuals remained subject to ongoing procedures. The Ministry of Interior also applied fines under Sub‑Decree No. 03 relating to security management of communal residences, totaling KHR 197,840,000 for owners and managers.
Key Developments
Operations in early June targeted identified scam facilities and supportive logistics across Phnom Penh and other provinces, leading to the arrest of 16 alleged ringleaders described by police as masterminds of coordinated campaigns. Police said investigations uncovered groups that monitored enforcement activity and relayed information to criminal leaders, prompting continued searches for additional suspects.
Institutional Role
The National Police led the enforcement activity and coordinated case handling with the General Directorate of Immigration and prosecutorial authorities for court referrals. Enforcement actions combined criminal detention, immigration processing, and administrative fines under an existing sub‑decree that governs security at collective living locations.
Compliance Implications
Owners and managers of sites where online scam operations were found received administrative penalties under Sub‑Decree No. 03 on the management of safety and security at collective residences; the reported aggregate fine amount was KHR 197,840,000. Businesses and site operators hosting residential or collective premises should expect continued scrutiny from security and immigration authorities where technology‑enabled fraud activity is identified.
