security
Updated 2026-06-14 5 min
In short
- ●193 foreigners arrested on June 14, 2026 in Poipet, Banteay Meanchey province.
- ●Operation conducted by national authorities against online scam centers.
- ●Reminder of legal risks for foreigners involved in illicit activities.
- ●Expats in Siem Reap are urged to verify their employers and report any suspicious activity.
193
People arrested
June 14, 2026
Date of raid
Poipet, Banteay Meanchey
Location
Khmer Times Breaking News
Source
Key facts at a glance
- 193 foreigners arrested. Raid on scam centers in Poipet on June 14, 2026.
- National operation. Led by Banteay Meanchey authorities with support from the Ministry of Interior.
- Online scams. Targeted centers specialized in investment and romance scams.
- Multiple nationalities. Arrests involve nationals from several Asian and African countries.
- Judicial proceedings ongoing. Suspects will be transferred to Phnom Penh for investigation.
How it happened
The operation unfolded in several phases, from preparation to arrest.
- May 2026: Local authorities gather intelligence on suspicious activities in the Poipet border area.
- Early June 2026: Joint planning between provincial police and anti-cybercrime special forces.
- June 14, 2026, 6:00 AM: Simultaneous raid begins on three buildings identified as scam centers.
- June 14, 2026, 10:00 AM: Operations conclude: 193 foreigners arrested, computer equipment seized.
- June 15, 2026: Suspects transferred to Banteay Meanchey central police station for interrogation.
- Following week: Files sent to the Phnom Penh prosecutor's office for prosecution.
Breakdown
The 193 arrested individuals are distributed as follows, according to initial information from authorities.
| Segment | Number | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese nationality | ~120 | Majority, often recruited through job promises |
| Vietnamese nationality | ~40 | Second largest group |
| Other Asian nationalities | ~20 | Filipinos, Indonesians, Thais |
| African nationalities | ~13 | Nigerians, Ghanaians notably |
| Role in scam | Operators (80%) | Low-level employees, often trafficking victims |
| Role in scam | Supervisors (20%) | Management, account handling |
What this concretely changes in Siem Reap
- Increased identity and visa checks in tourist and commercial areas.
- Expats must ensure their employer is registered and their work visa is valid.
- Higher risk of spot checks in cybercafés and coworking spaces.
- Reporting platforms (hotline 117) are encouraged to report suspicious activities.
- Expats involuntarily involved in scams (via fake recruitment) may benefit from protections if they cooperate with authorities.
How to avoid trouble
- Verify your employer: Ensure the company is registered with the Ministry of Commerce and your contract is legal.
- Do not participate in any dubious activity: Avoid overly lucrative job offers in trading, customer support, or online gaming.
- Keep your documents in order: Work visa, passport, residence certificate. Make copies.
- Report suspicious behavior: Call 117 or contact your country's embassy.
- Stay informed: Follow local news from reliable sources like Khmer Times.
- Avoid sensitive border areas: Poipet and other crossing points are under high surveillance.
- Consult a lawyer if in doubt: If approached by recruiters, seek legal advice before accepting.
Frequently asked questions
What does a foreigner arrested in a scam center risk?
Sentences can range from 5 to 15 years in prison, followed by deportation. Trafficking victims may benefit from mitigating circumstances.
How can I know if my job is legal in Cambodia?
Check that your employer has an operating license and that you have a work visa (E-class). The Ministry of Labor maintains a register.
What should I do if I witness suspicious activity?
Contact the hotline 117 (police) or your embassy. Do not attempt to intervene yourself.
Are expats in Siem Reap targeted by these raids?
Raids primarily target border areas, but vigilance is increased nationwide. Expats must comply with the law.
Can I work online from Siem Reap without risk?
Yes, if you have a valid work visa and your activity is declared. Teleworking for a foreign employer is allowed under conditions.
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Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia