Raid in Poipet: 300 arrests at scam center

On April 26, 2026, the Cambodian national police conducted a large-scale raid in the border town of Poipet, arresting approximately 300 people suspected of participating in an online scam center. The operation, coordinated with Thai authorities, aimed to dismantle a criminal network that had been operating for several months. According to initial reports, victims were primarily foreign nationals contacted through messaging platforms and dating websites.

Poipet is a frequently used crossing point for Siem Reap expats traveling to Thailand for administrative procedures or trips. This raid serves as a reminder that the border region harbors illicit activities, even though the town itself remains safe for travelers.

For expats based in Siem Reap, this raid has no direct impact on daily life. The city is far from Poipet (approximately 150 km away) and the dismantled criminal activities did not specifically target local residents. However, if you plan to cross the border into Thailand via Poipet, remain aware of your surroundings. Police checks could be reinforced in the days following the raid, which may cause delays.

It is also advisable to check security advisories from your embassy before traveling. If in doubt, prefer the Aranyaprathet border crossing, which is more frequented and better monitored.

If you need to travel to Thailand via Poipet:

• Plan your trip on a weekday, preferably in the morning, to avoid long queues.
• Keep your identity documents and visa readily accessible.
• Do not carry large sums of money without declaration.
• Avoid lingering in isolated areas around the border.

For any official information, consult the website of the French Embassy in Cambodia or contact the Cambodian Ministry of Interior.

Scam centers like the one dismantled often recruit through attractive job offers on social media. Be wary of job proposals abroad that promise high salaries without prior experience. Always verify the legitimacy of the employer before accepting a position.

Additionally, rumors circulate on Telegram concerning local complicity. Remain critical of unverified information and prioritize official sources.

Cambodian authorities have promised to continue operations dismantling scam networks. It is likely that additional raids will take place in the coming months, particularly in border zones. Expats should stay informed through official channels and reliable local media.

In parallel, cooperation with Thailand could intensify, which would improve security at border crossings. Good news for frequent travelers.