Cambodian Deputy Provincial Police Chief Detained in Online Scam Bust

In Banteay Meanchey province, western Cambodia, police authorities have detained and are questioning Major General Ouk Sophal, the Deputy Provincial Police Commissioner, in connection with a raid on suspected online scam operations. Officials stated that Major General Ouk Sophal has been under interrogation since September 21 and remained at the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Police Headquarters as of September 22, cooperating with the investigation. The investigation follows the operation by specialized police forces to raid two buildings suspected of involvement in online scam activities. According to reports, the first building is five stories high with 172 rooms and one hall, while the second building is two stories high with 59 rooms and one hall. During the operation, authorities discovered over 200 foreigners, including 174 Thai nationals (67 women), 10 Bangladeshis, 8 Indonesians, 3 Filipinos, 2 Chinese, 2 Indians, and 1 Malaysian. Additionally, 23 Cambodian nationals (15 women) were also found. The foreigners have been transferred to the Kon Wat Center in Banteay Meanchey province for further proceedings. Some equipment and items suspected of being involved in scam activities have been seized and submitted to the Provincial Police Headquarters for legal procedures. Authorities have decided to temporarily close both buildings. Investigations and evidence collection are ongoing to identify those involved and take legal action. Information Source: CEN Cambodia