Anti-scam raids: 61 suspects arrested in Phnom Penh and 9 in Svay Rieng

securite

Updated 2026-05-27 5 min

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In short

●61 suspects arrested in Phnom Penh and 9 in Svay Rieng on May 27, 2026.
●All suspects are Chinese nationals involved in online scam centers.
●These raids show active crackdown on organized crime, reassuring for expatriates.
●Operations are part of a national campaign against cross-border scams.

Suspects arrested

May 27, 2026

Date of raids

Phnom Penh and Svay Rieng

Locations

Phnom Penh Post

Source

70 arrests total. 61 in Phnom Penh and 9 in Svay Rieng, all Chinese nationals.
Date of operations. Raids conducted on May 27, 2026.
Nature of offenses. Online scam centers targeting international victims.
Context. National crackdown campaign against cybercrime.
Impact for expats. Enhanced security and deterrence of illegal activities.

The coordinated raids took place on May 27, 2026, as part of a broader operation against online scam centers.

May 2026: Cambodian authorities intensify surveillance of suspicious areas in Phnom Penh and Svay Rieng.
May 27, 2026 (morning): Simultaneous raid on several buildings in Phnom Penh, resulting in the arrest of 61 Chinese nationals.
May 27, 2026 (afternoon): A second operation in Svay Rieng leads to the arrest of 9 additional suspects.
Post-arrest: Suspects are placed in pre-trial detention pending trial for online fraud.
Next steps: Ongoing investigation to dismantle networks and identify other accomplices.

The arrests are distributed as follows:

Reduced risk of online scams: expats are less likely to be targeted by scams originating from Cambodia.
Improved country reputation: crackdown efforts boost confidence among investors and foreign residents.
Increased police presence: operations show heightened vigilance, deterring criminal activities.
Less human trafficking: scam centers are often linked to trafficking; their closure protects potential victims.
Safer environment for digital nomads: fighting cybercrime makes Siem Reap more attractive for remote workers.

Step 1: Report any suspicious activity to local authorities (police station or hotline 117).
Step 2: Avoid too-good-to-be-true job offers online, especially those involving money transfers.
Step 3: Use secure connections and avoid unprotected public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
Step 4: Beware of unsolicited calls or messages asking for personal or banking information.
Step 5: Stay informed about security alerts through expat groups and local media.
Step 6: When in doubt, contact your country's embassy for advice.

What types of scams were targeted in these raids?

The dismantled centers specialized in online scams, including fraudulent calls, fake investments, and identity theft, targeting victims abroad.

Are expats in Siem Reap directly threatened by these networks?

Although the main targets are often abroad, expats can be indirectly affected (e.g., phishing). The crackdown reduces these risks.

What should I do if I fall victim to a scam in Cambodia?

Contact the local police immediately (117) and your embassy. Keep all evidence (messages, receipts).

Are these raids isolated or part of a broader campaign?

They are part of a national campaign against cybercrime, with regular operations in several provinces.

Is there a risk of retaliation against expats who report suspicious activities?

Authorities guarantee confidentiality of reports. It is recommended to use official channels to minimize risks.

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Siem Reap Hub

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