Authorities detain 290 foreign nationals for illegal residence, employment in Preah Sihanouk

PREAH SIHANOUK, Cambodia (Oct. 7, 2025) — Cambodian authorities have detained 290 foreign nationals following workplace clashes involving Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Chinese nationals in Preah Sihanouk City on the night of Oct. 4–5.

The crackdown, led by Lt. Gen. Oeuth Sok Khe and Lt. Gen. Sarotha of the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Police, was carried out under the direction of the National Police commissioner and the provincial governor, in coordination with the provincial court prosecutor’s office.

The detainees include 216 Pakistanis, 68 Bangladeshis and six Nepalese, all suspected of residing and working in Cambodia without legal authorization. Authorities said investigations are ongoing and further legal action will be taken in accordance with Cambodian law.

Interior Ministry spokesperson Touch Sokha said the government has intensified efforts to combat human trafficking, including passing new legislation, forming anti-trafficking committees and launching coordinated crackdowns on online scam networks.

“We have implemented strict legal measures, arrested suspects, deported foreign nationals and brought ringleaders to court,” Sokha said. “We will continue to clean the country of these crimes.”

He added that Cambodia has never tolerated trafficking and continues to work with interna.