Phnom Penh Cracks Down on Online Scams, Arrests Over 50 Suspects in Tech-Enabled Fraud Operations

On July 27, 2026, the Unified Command of the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration launched a crackdown on technology-based online scams (ONLINE SCAMS), arresting over 50 suspects in two cases. Numerous laptops and mobile phones were seized as evidence. According to Ms. Dau Samphos, spokesperson for the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration, under the direct leadership and command of H.E. Khuong Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh and Chairman of the Unified Command, the unified commands of the 14 districts conducted inspections and disseminated Decree No. 03 across various locations including condominiums, apartments, boreys, guesthouses, and hotels. The operation aimed to sweep suspected locations involved in technology-based online scams within the Phnom Penh geographical area, covering a total of 58 locations. During the operation, 533 foreign nationals (148 females) were found residing, with 4 individuals staying without passports. Among the 58 locations inspected, two were identified as sites of criminal activity. The first case involved online fraud operating under the guise of job advertisements. The second case was also related to online scams utilizing technology. This operation is part of Phnom Penh's broader efforts to combat cybercrime. In recent years, as technology has become more prevalent in Cambodia, online scam tactics have become increasingly sophisticated, prompting authorities to strengthen their countermeasures. Scams using fake job advertisements, particularly targeting young people and job seekers, have become a significant social concern.