Arrest of Fake Tourism Agents in Phnom Penh

On April 26, 2026, Phnom Penh police arrested 12 foreign nationals involved in a fraudulent tourism operation. According to initial reports, these individuals were offering fake tours and tourism services, likely through fictitious agencies or deceptive online offers. The operation was conducted following victim complaints and a criminal investigation by police.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact nationalities of the suspects, but the case is a reminder that tourism scams exist in Cambodia too, often targeting unsuspecting travelers.

Although the arrest took place in Phnom Penh, this type of scam can easily spread to Siem Reap, a major tourist destination. Expats and long-term travelers are potential targets, especially if they book excursions or tours without verifying the agency's legitimacy.

If you're planning a trip or tourism activity, be particularly cautious of offers that seem too good to be true or agencies without a clear physical address. The most common scams include tours paid in advance that never happen, or fictitious transportation services.

To avoid tourism scams, follow these steps:

• Verify the license: any legitimate travel agency in Cambodia must have a license issued by the Ministry of Tourism. Ask to see this document.
• Check reviews: use platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Maps to read feedback from other travelers. Be wary of overly recent reviews or those lacking detail.
• Pay by card or through secure platforms: avoid direct bank transfers or cash payments without a receipt.
• Contact tourism police: if you have doubts or are a victim, call 117 (tourism police) or visit the nearest police station.

Scammers often use well-honed techniques:

• Offers that sound too good to be true: rock-bottom tour prices, luxury hotels for $10 a night, etc.
• Fake recommendations: accomplices may leave false positive reviews online or recommend the agency in expat Facebook groups.
• Pressure to book: "limited spots," "exclusive offer today" are tactics to get you to pay without verifying.
• No trace: no professional website, no landline number, no physical address.

Stay critical and don't let urgency pressure you into a decision.

Cambodian authorities are intensifying controls in the tourism sector. Expect more police operations in tourist areas, particularly in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Expats working in tourism should ensure their documents are in order.

If you've been a victim of a similar scam, report it to police and your embassy. These reports help prevent further fraud and protect the community.