Hun Sen Orders Confiscation of Assets of Officials Involved in Online Scams

• Shock announcement. Hun Sen orders criminal prosecution and confiscation of assets of officials involved in online scams.
• Key date. Statement made on May 24, 2026 via the Telegram channel of the Cambodian People's Party.
• No leniency. The leader insists on strict enforcement of the law, with no exceptions for officials.
• Enhanced credibility. This measure aims to restore investor and expatriate confidence in the anti-scam fight.
• Immediate impact. Expatriates in Siem Reap, often targeted, benefit from increased legal protection.

On May 24, 2026, Hun Sen, President of the National Assembly of Cambodia, issued a strong statement on the official Telegram channel of the Cambodian People's Party. Here are the key steps of this announcement and its expected aftermath.

1. May 24, 2026: Hun Sen publishes a message calling for legal prosecution and confiscation of assets of officials involved in online scams.
2. Same day: The message is relayed by Cambodian media, including Cambodianess, and widely commented on in the expat community.
3. Next step: The Ministry of Interior and judicial authorities are tasked with identifying and prosecuting corrupt officials.
4. Expected follow-up: Legislative amendments may be proposed to facilitate asset confiscation.
5. Expected impact: A decrease in online scams and better protection for victims, especially expatriates.

Although the announcement does not provide specific figures, online scams in Cambodia mainly affect the following sectors:

• Enhanced legal protection: Expatriates who are victims of scams can now count on systematic prosecution of complicit officials.
• Deterrence of scammers: The threat of asset confiscation reduces the incentive to participate in scams.
• Easier reporting: Local authorities will be more responsive to expatriate complaints.
• Climate of trust: Investors and long-term residents will feel more secure.
• Increased vigilance: Expatriates should remain cautious but can report any abuse with confidence.

1. Step 1: Report any scam attempt to local authorities (Siem Reap police station or anti-scam hotline).
2. Step 2: Always check the background of real estate agents or financial advisors through official registries.
3. Step 3: Never transfer money to strangers without a written contract and independent verification.
4. Step 4: Use secure payment platforms and avoid direct transfers to personal accounts.
5. Step 5: Join local expat groups (Facebook, Telegram) to share alerts and best practices.
6. Step 6: Keep all evidence (screenshots, emails) in case of a dispute.
7. Step 7: When in doubt, contact your country's embassy for legal advice.