AKP Phnom Penh, May 24, 2026 --

Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State and President of the Cambodian People’s Party, has called for stronger measures against online scam networks, stressing that the crackdown must go hand in hand with action against officials involved in or failing to combat such crimes.

Speaking during a meeting with leaders of ministries, institutions, and local authorities in Phnom Penh on May 24 at Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre, Samdech Techo urged the Royal Government and the Ministry of Interior to thoroughly investigate arrested suspects involved in online scams, particularly those without passports or legal documents.

He instructed authorities to determine through which countries and border checkpoints the suspects had entered Cambodia in order to clearly inform the international community about the routes most frequently used by transnational criminals.

Samdech Techo warned that online scam operations have severely damaged Cambodia’s reputation, dignity, and national image, while also posing a future threat to national security.

He praised the Royal Government for taking responsibility in cracking down on online scam syndicates and welcomed the recent removal of several officials linked to such activities.

However, he stressed that officials involved should not merely be dismissed from their positions, but also face legal action and court prosecution following thorough investigations.

“These groups cannot be allowed to escape responsibility because they are disastrous groups, and officials involved are disastrous officials,” he said, adding that inactive officials who refuse to act against online scams should also be removed from office.

Samdech Techo further noted that online scam activities not only affect Cambodia’s international reputation but also harm the economy by discouraging investors and tourists from coming to the country.

He underlined that Cambodia’s economy does not depend on online scam operations and reaffirmed the need to eradicate such crimes to protect national interests and public confidence.

By C. Nika