Cambodia Prosecutes Former Police Official and Commune Chief in Online Scam Bust

The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) of Cambodia has prosecuted former Kirisakor District Police Deputy Chief Chin Sophan and former Prek Khsach Commune Chief (Koh Kong Province) Ream Rum for allegedly providing information and aiding the escape of Chinese nationals involved in online scams prior to a raid. According to a statement released by the ACU on September 23, Chin Sophan, who is the brother-in-law of Ream Rum, initially denied any involvement in illegal activities. However, after the ACU presented evidence, he admitted to certain actions. The ACU reported that on May 27, 2026, Chin Sophan became aware that law enforcement forces were planning to raid an online scam location in Prek Khsach Commune and subsequently sent this information to Ream Rum via Telegram. Ream Rum reportedly responded that he was also aware and advised the Chinese nationals to enter the forest to evade the crackdown. Following the operation, the ACU stated that the Chinese nationals had already been evacuated from the location. Meanwhile, Chea Soth, also known as Ly Meng, was apprehended at the scene, and 89 rounds of 9mm ammunition were discovered. The ACU also revealed that Chin Sophan had previously facilitated the relocation of online scam groups to different locations, receiving payments ranging from $100 to $150 per vehicle. On September 15, 2026, the ACU forwarded the case file to the prosecutor's office. Ream Rum is accused of bribery, money laundering, and conspiracy to organize or lead an online scam center. Chea Soth and Chea Vathana are also charged with conspiracy in bribery, money laundering, and organizing or leading an online scam center in Koh Kong Province.