Hun Sen Orders Prosecution of Officials Linked to Online Scams

securite

Updated 2026-05-24 5 min

✨ Summarize this article with AI

In short

●Hun Sen has publicly demanded prosecution of officials linked to online scam networks.
●Seizure of illicitly acquired assets is also ordered.
●This measure aims to boost investor and expatriate confidence.
●Local authorities in Siem Reap are on alert to enforce these directives.

May 24, 2026

Announcement Date

Hun Sen, President of the Senate

Author

Prosecution and asset seizure

Key Measures

Enhanced security for expats

Expected Impact

Official announcement. On May 24, 2026, Hun Sen called for decisive action against officials involved in online scam networks.
Ordered measures. Legal prosecution and seizure of fraudulently acquired assets.
Context. Online scams, often linked to scam centers, have affected thousands of victims, including expatriates.
Scope. The order applies to all officials, regardless of rank.
Objective. Clean up Cambodia's image and reassure foreign investors and expatriates.

Hun Sen's announcement is part of a series of government actions against cybercrime. Here are the key steps:

2023-2024: Increase in reports of online scams targeting expatriates and tourists in Cambodia.
2025: Government launches raids on several scam centers in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
Early 2026: Investigations reveal involvement of local officials in protecting these networks.
May 24, 2026: Hun Sen publicly declares that corrupt officials must be prosecuted and their assets seized.
Next steps: Ministries of Interior and Justice are tasked with implementing these directives in the coming weeks.

Although the announcement is national, its impact can be segmented by type of stakeholders involved:

Segment	Number	Detail
Officials involved	Not disclosed	Ongoing investigations, several arrests anticipated
Scam centers dismantled (2025-2026)	Over 50	Including 12 in the Siem Reap area
Expatriate victims	Estimated 5,000+	Mainly through fraudulent job offers
Seized assets (estimated value)	Several million USD	Properties, vehicles, bank accounts

Reduced scam risk. Expatriates are less likely to be targeted by fraudulent job offers or investments.
Better legal protection. Local authorities are now required to cooperate with foreign victims.
Climate of trust. Investors and digital nomads can work more peacefully.
Enhanced scrutiny. Property owners will need to prove the legality of their acquisitions.
Easier reporting. A dedicated hotline may be set up for expatriate scam victims.

Verify job offers. Only respond to ads from companies officially registered in Cambodia.
Never transfer money. No Cambodian administration asks for online payments for visas or permits.
Report suspicious behavior. Contact Siem Reap tourist police at 012 969 991.
Use official sources. For administrative procedures, refer to the Ministry of Interior website.
Keep your documents. Retain copies of your passport, visa, and employment contract.
Join expat groups. Online communities share alerts and best practices.
Stay informed. Follow news on SiemReapHub for security updates.

What exactly did Hun Sen announce?

On May 24, 2026, he ordered legal prosecution and asset seizure for all officials involved in online scam networks.

Does this measure apply to Siem Reap?

Yes, the order is national. Siem Reap authorities are required to enforce it, enhancing local security.

What should I do if I am a scam victim?

Immediately contact tourist police at 012 969 991 and report the incident to your country's embassy.

Are expatriates specifically protected?

Yes, the crackdown aims to protect all residents, including foreigners, and improve Cambodia's reputation.

Will there be compensation for victims?

Asset seizure could allow compensation for some victims, but details remain to be defined.

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Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia