Phnom Penh Police Tighten Crackdown on Online Scams, Warn of Stricter Measures

PHNOM PENH, June 23, 2026 (KPT) – Phnom Penh police have renewed warnings against online scams and pledged stricter enforcement measures, instructing officers to intensify investigations and crackdowns while adhering to professional and legal standards, officials said Tuesday.

The directive was issued during a meeting chaired by Lieutenant General Chuon Narin, Deputy Commissioner General and Commissioner of Phnom Penh Police, at the municipal headquarters on June 22.

The session focused on strengthening police work and improving operational effectiveness.

“Relevant police forces must continue investigating and cracking down on online scam crimes with determination,” Lt. Gen. Chuon Narin said, emphasizing that all enforcement actions must follow proper procedures and legal principles.

He also urged units to maintain clear oversight of personnel and pay attention to the welfare of officers facing medical or financial difficulties.

Authorities were instructed to pursue rigorous investigations into scam networks while reinforcing preventive measures against human trafficking and other criminal offenses.

According to the Commission for Combating Online Scams, Cambodian police recently deported 164 Chinese nationals, including 10 women, linked to online scam operations and immigration violations.

The crackdown was carried out under measures ordered by Prime Minister Hun Manet and directed by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Sokha.

Officials said the campaign is part of a nationwide effort to dismantle cybercrime networks, protect Cambodian citizens and foreign nationals, and assist victims allegedly trafficked or deceived into participating in such schemes.