Cambodia Exposes Online Scam Center Linked to Notorious Criminal

Cambodian authorities have opened the doors of a former online scamming hub, reportedly linked to notorious criminal Chen Zhi, to members of the media. The facility, located in Prek Sang village, Samphou Poun commune, Samphou Poun district, Kandal province, was constructed on a 51-hectare plot of land. According to officials, the center housed 55 buildings, 113 villas, and 4,707 rooms that were utilized for scamming operations. A raid and search by authorities took place on January 20, 2026, with owners and staff having fled prior to the operation. The scam center is also reportedly connected to the Prince Group. Under the leadership of the Ministry of Information and the Inter-Ministerial Committee to Combat Technology-Based Scams, the Cambodian government facilitated access for domestic and international media from major institutions on the morning of September 22, 2026, for reporting and photography at the former scamming hub. This coincides with Cambodia's preparations for the "International Conference on Combating Technology-Based Scams." Authorities announced the seizure of evidence including 3,779 computers, 11,585 mobile phones, 56 CPUs, 35 servers, 8 sets of foreign police uniforms, and passports. Two individuals, identified as Chiu Yin Ou and John Riskin, are named as owners of the facility. Arrest warrants have been issued by the court for both, and a request has been made to place them on Interpol's Red Notice for international arrest. The center has been completely sealed off, with water, electricity, and internet services disconnected. Security cameras have also been installed to ensure that criminals cannot return to operate there again. This facility is among 86 online scamming centers that Cambodian authorities have cracked down on and managed, with procedures underway for confiscation into state property. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local