PM Hun Manet calls for tougher crackdown on crime as Interior Ministry reviews 2025 performance

PHNOM PENH, Feb 6, 2026 (KPT) – Prime Minister Hun Manet has urged tougher action against social crimes including online fraud, drugs and human trafficking as Cambodia’s Interior Ministry wrapped up its 2025 performance review and set priorities for the year ahead.

Speaking at the close of a two-day conference on February 5, Hun Manet praised officials, police and prison officers for maintaining political stability and public order despite what he called complex external challenges.

He called for stronger enforcement against technology-based fraud, drug offences, youth gangs, traffic violations and human trafficking, warning that disciplinary measures would be taken against any officials involved in criminal activity.

“We must unite with firm determination to clean our own house, expelling all evils from the country,” he said.

The premier also urged public support for government efforts to combat crime and outlined priorities for 2026, including assistance for displaced residents, expanded civil registration services, digital transformation of institutions, improved one-stop public services and continued decentralisation reforms.

The conference, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Sokha, drew around 800 participants including senior officials, governors, police commissioners and prison directors.

According to the ministry, overall criminal offences fell 17% in 2025 compared with the previous year, with a reported suppression rate of 96%.

Authorities cited progress in tackling drug crimes, human trafficking, illegal gambling, youth gangs and online fraud, with several foreign suspects arrested and repatriated in cooperation with overseas authorities.

Reports presented at the meeting covered public security, prison management, sub-national administration, digitalisation and service delivery, as well as national ID services, land-use planning and women’s participation in local administration.