Cambodia to Suspend Online Gambling at All Casinos From October Amid Cyber Scam Crackdown

PHNOM PENH, Sept 7, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia will suspend online gambling operations at all casinos nationwide from October as the government intensifies its campaign against cyber-enabled scams and seeks tighter control over gambling activities and suspicious financial flows, officials said. Interior Minister Sar Sokha announced the decision on September 5, saying the suspension reflects Prime Minister Hun Manet’s directive to strengthen measures against technology-based fraud. Authorities have found that some online betting operations broadcast directly from casinos, complicating efforts to monitor activities and track the movement of funds. The suspension will give ministries and institutions time to develop stronger controls, including clearer legal frameworks, digital monitoring systems and trained personnel. Online gambling may resume only once adequate safeguards are in place, Sokha said, warning that casinos violating the ban could face license revocation and legal action. The move comes as Cambodia steps up a nationwide crackdown on online scams. Between July 2025 and August 31, 2026, authorities reported dismantling 86 major scam compounds, raiding hundreds of suspected sites and detaining nearly 30,000 suspects from 39 countries. More than 22,000 foreign nationals were also rescued and repatriated. Officials have taken action against 27 casinos, revoking 18 licenses and suspending nine, as part of efforts to prevent gambling venues from being used for illegal betting and cybercrime. While large-scale scam compounds have been cleared, authorities acknowledge that smaller networks continue to operate from concealed locations, including rented properties and vehicles. The suspension of online gambling marks another significant step in Cambodia’s effort to tighten casino regulation, disrupt criminal networks and strengthen oversight of financial flows linked to cybercrime.