AKP Phnom Penh, November 25, 2025 --

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, H.E. Abhisantibindit Sar Sokha, has called on banks and microfinance institutions (MFIs) to step up collaboration with law enforcement to prevent and suppress the rising tide of phone-based and social-media fraud schemes targeting the public.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Consultation Workshop on the Draft National Strategic Plan of Identification, Phase 2 (2026-2035) on Nov. 24, the Minister highlighted the financial sector's critical role in safeguarding citizens and preserving the integrity of Cambodia's financial system.

The Deputy Prime Minister revealed the scale of the recent challenge, noting that the Ministry of Interior has recently received approximately 200 fraud complaints involving total victim losses exceeding US$800,000. These funds were reportedly transferred directly into scammers' bank accounts.

The fraud schemes cited included: Impersonation of bank or MFI staff; "Lucky prize" phone calls demanding upfront fees; Fraudulent online sales requiring advance payment for discounted goods, followed by immediate cessation of contact; Illegal access to and unauthorised withdrawal or transfer of funds from victims’ accounts.

H.E. Abhisantibindit Sar Sokha underscored that tackling these crimes requires decisive action, starting with the Ministry of Interior. He announced the instruction to establish a joint task force comprising relevant specialised units to investigate and suppress financial fraud.

Under this mechanism, dedicated officers will operate 24 hours a day and work in direct liaison with bank and MFI representatives whenever complaints are filed. The cooperation will focus on rapid coordination, including urgent requests to freeze funds in suspected accounts to prevent further financial loss.

“If anything happens, we must be able to talk immediately and act together,” H.E. Sar Sokha stressed.

He emphasised the need for immediate action, especially given that many incidents occur over the weekend—Saturdays or Sundays—a critical time when funds are often swiftly withdrawn or transferred before intervention is possible. He urged strong collaboration from the financial sector, as the process requires their authority at crucial stages.

The Minister reaffirmed that combating financial fraud cannot be achieved by law enforcement bodies alone, stressing the necessity of active and timely cooperation from the banking and microfinance sector.

By K. Rithy Reak