Police chief orders nationwide crackdown on online scams and transnational crime

PHNOM PENH, July 7, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Police Commissioner‑General Sar Thet has ordered law enforcement agencies nationwide to intensify operations against online scam networks, drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime, saying the measures are vital to protect public security and strengthen the country’s international reputation.

Speaking at a meeting to review policing and security operations during the first half of 2026, General Sar Thet, Commissioner‑General of the National Police, instructed police at all levels to step up surveillance, investigations and enforcement against criminal groups.

The meeting, held Monday at the Ministry of Interior, also outlined policing priorities for the remainder of the year.

Sar Thet said Cambodia faced growing security challenges as geopolitical competition among major powers intensified in the region.

He warned that terrorism, transnational crime and the increasing use of digital technology to facilitate illegal activities continued to pose serious risks.

He called for closer coordination across all branches of the National Police to safeguard national security, maintain public order and ensure public safety.

Specialised units were directed to focus on tackling murders involving Cambodian and foreign nationals, kidnapping for ransom, unlawful detention, drug and human trafficking, youth gang activity, illegal gambling, emerging forms of crime and economic offences threatening public health.

The police chief praised officers nationwide for their work during the first six months of the year, commending their efforts to maintain security and public order across the country.