Cambodia Rejects CNA Commentary on Anti-Scam Crackdowns

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 26, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior has rejected claims in a recent Chanel New Asia (CNA) commentary that crackdowns on online scam operations target only “small fry” and serve mainly to show authorities are taking action.

In a statement, the ministry said the article by commentator Nirmal Ghosh was based on “emotions and political views” and did not reflect the work carried out by Cambodian agencies or international partners.

It stressed that Cambodia, like many countries in the region, continues to face challenges posed by transnational crime.

Authorities noted that cross-border criminal networks operate globally and that even developed nations struggle to curb similar offenses. The ministry pointed out that CNA itself has produced investigative reports on fraud syndicates in other Southeast Asian countries.

The ministry also highlighted what it described as extensive cooperation with foreign law-enforcement bodies, including task forces from the United States, Japan, Australia, South Korea and Singapore. It said criticism of Cambodia’s efforts risked overlooking the role played by these partners.

Government figures show 283 foreign nationals were arrested and deported in 2023, rising to 2,982 in 2024. In 2025, authorities reported 24 cases of technology-related fraud, resulting in the detention of 1,859 foreign nationals.

Eleven cases were submitted to the courts, involving 148 suspects, including alleged ringleaders.

Despite ongoing concerns raised by rights groups and international media about the scale of scam compounds in the region, the ministry said operations in Cambodia would continue and remain a priority for national security and the safety of foreign citizens affected by such crimes.