securite
Updated 2026-04-29 5 min
In short
- ●Cambodian and South Korean police have expanded their joint task force to include drugs and gambling.
- ●166 arrests have been made and 5 South Korean nationals rescued in recent months.
- ●This cooperation enhances security for expats, especially in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
- ●Expats should report any suspicious behavior to local authorities.
What exactly happened?
On April 29, 2026, police forces from Cambodia and South Korea announced the expansion of their joint task force. Initially created to combat online scams, this unit now also targets drug trafficking and illegal gambling. According to the Phnom Penh Post, this decision follows successful operations: 166 arrests and the rescue of five South Korean nationals who were trafficking victims.
What it means for you in Siem Reap
This enhanced cooperation means increased police presence and better coordination to dismantle criminal networks. For expats in Siem Reap, this translates to improved security, especially in tourist areas and places frequented by the international community. Scams targeting foreigners (fake job offers, real estate fraud) should be better tackled.
What to do if you are affected
If you are a victim or witness of suspicious activity:
- Contact local police at 117 (Cambodian emergency number).
- Report the incident to your embassy.
- For South Korean nationals, the South Korean embassy in Phnom Penh can be reached at +855 23 223 776.
- Share information with the expat community via local Telegram or WhatsApp groups.
Pitfalls to be aware of
Beware of attractive fake job offers, often used to lure victims into scam networks. Never disclose your personal or banking information to strangers. When in doubt, check with the embassy or police. Avoid unregulated gambling, which may be linked to illegal activities.
What to watch for in the coming weeks
Expect more joint operations and checks, especially in areas with high expat concentration. The task force may publish regular progress reports. Stay informed via local media and official embassy channels.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cambodia-South Korea task force?
What are the results of this task force?
How does this affect my safety as an expat?
What should I do if I am a victim of a scam?
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