Raids in Phnom Penh: Nearly 2,000 Phones Seized at Scam Sites

• 1,982 phones seized. Authorities confiscated nearly 2,000 mobile phones and computer parts during two simultaneous raids.
• One suspect arrested. A Chinese national was taken into custody, suspected of being the wholesale equipment supplier for scam networks.
• Two sites targeted. Searches took place in warehouses located in Meanchey and Sen Sok districts of Phnom Penh.
• High-tech equipment. In addition to phones, computers, routers, and SIM cards were seized, indicating a sophisticated infrastructure.
• Investigation ongoing. Authorities are working to identify the recipients of the equipment and dismantle the scam networks.

The raids were conducted by the Cambodian judicial police after several weeks of surveillance. Here are the key steps:

1. June 2026: Authorities spot suspicious bulk purchases of phones and computer parts in warehouses in Phnom Penh.
2. Early July 2026: A discreet investigation is launched, with tailing and electronic surveillance of the identified sites.
3. July 17, 2026: Two simultaneous raids are carried out at dawn in Meanchey and Sen Sok districts. Police seize 1,982 phones, computers, routers, and thousands of SIM cards.
4. July 17, 2026: A Chinese national, presented as the warehouse manager, is arrested without resistance.
5. July 18, 2026: Suspects are interrogated; police announce the investigation is expanding to other provinces.
6. Coming weeks: Authorities plan to trace the supply chain and identify the scam networks that were customers.

The seizures were distributed between the two sites. Here is the breakdown by district:

• Risk of trapped jobs: Job offers for well-paid 'technical support' or 'customer service' positions may hide scam activities. Always verify the company.
• Dubious equipment suppliers: Buying phones or SIM cards in bulk from unauthorized resellers can expose you to prosecution.
• Increased checks: Law enforcement is intensifying patrols and inspections in commercial areas and warehouses.
• Social media vigilance: Beware of messages or offers from unknown accounts offering cut-price equipment.
• Mandatory reporting: If you witness suspicious activities (mass phone purchases, nighttime comings and goings), report them to the police.

1. Verify job offers: Do not apply to an ad without checking the company's legal existence via the Ministry of Commerce or the Chamber of Commerce.
2. Don't buy equipment in bulk without an invoice: Any major purchase of phones or computers must come with an official invoice and receipt.
3. Avoid cash transactions: Cash payments for high-tech equipment are a red flag. Prefer traceable bank transfers.
4. Report suspicious behavior: Contact the police at 117 or the local station if you see unusual comings and goings at warehouses or massive package deliveries.
5. Protect your personal data: Never share your ID documents or passport with a potential employer before signing a contract.
6. Stay informed: Follow local news and alerts from your country's embassy to know about the latest scams.