Cambodia Scams: 4,834 Suspects Detained, 77 Police Officers Sanctioned

• 4,834 people detained. This is the total number of suspects currently held in tech scam cases in Cambodia, according to the report published by the Ministry of Interior.
• 737 women affected. Women make up about 15% of detainees, a figure that reflects the human trafficking dimension of many dismantled networks.
• 77 police officers sanctioned. Some were dismissed, others expelled from public service for scam-related offenses — corruption, protection, direct participation.
• A national campaign. Operations primarily target border provinces (Bavet, Poipet, Sihanoukville) and special economic zones.
• Published on September 25, 2026. The Ministry of Interior made this report public to mark a milestone in the crackdown that began several months ago.

The crackdown on scam centers in Cambodia has been built in stages, between international pressure and local operations.

1. 2022-2023: First international revelations about "scam compounds" in Cambodia, linked to human trafficking networks and massive online fraud.
2. 2024: The Cambodian government announces a national campaign against scams and creates interministerial task forces.
3. 2025: Raids multiply in border provinces; thousands of foreigners are arrested, often themselves victims of trafficking.
4. Early 2026: Authorities intensify checks on police officers and officials suspected of complicity with the networks.
5. September 25, 2026: The Ministry of Interior publishes the cumulative report: 4,834 detainees and 77 police officers sanctioned.
6. Late 2026 (planned): New inspections announced in special economic zones and border provinces.

The data published by the Ministry of Interior allows the report to be segmented by category of people concerned.

• Tighter checks on rentals. Landlords and agencies in Siem Reap are encouraged to more strictly verify the identity and visa of their foreign tenants.
• Increased vigilance on work visas. Expats working freelance or remotely for foreign clients must be able to justify their status and source of income.
• Risk of false accusations. A malicious report or confusion with a network can lead to prolonged checks; keeping documents up to date is essential.
• Stricter security climate. Local authorities are showing their willingness to clean up the sector; dubious online activities are more closely monitored.
• Opportunity for clarification. For honest expats, this tightening can improve Cambodia's reputation as a destination for digital nomads and retirees.

1. Step 1: Check that your visa (business, retirement, work) is valid and matches your actual activity.
2. Step 2: Keep a digital and paper copy of your passport, visa, lease agreement, and proof of income.
3. Step 3: Avoid any ambiguous online activity (undeclared crypto, gambling, trading for third parties) that could associate you with a scam network.
4. Step 4: Declare your address to your landlord or the sangkat (commune) if necessary, and keep a written record.
5. Step 5: During a police check, stay calm, present your documents, and ask to contact your embassy if the situation drags on.
6. Step 6: Join local expat groups (Facebook, Telegram) to stay informed about checks and areas to avoid.
7. Step 7: If in doubt about a job offer or accommodation, verify with the expat community or local authorities before committing.