5,535 Arrests for Online Scams in April

• 5,535 arrests. In April 2026, Cambodian authorities arrested 5,535 people involved in online scam networks.
• 48 major sites. Operations targeted 48 large compounds across the country.
• Main nationalities. The majority of suspects are Chinese and Thai nationals.
• Ongoing crackdown. These arrests are part of a national campaign against cybercrime.
• Expat impact. Expats are urged to report suspicious activity and avoid dubious job offers.

The operations took place throughout April 2026, with coordination between local and international law enforcement.

1. Early April: Preparation of raids based on intelligence gathered over several months.
2. Mid-April: First simultaneous raids in several provinces, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
3. Late April: Final tally of 5,535 arrests and closure of 48 sites.
4. Early May: Official announcement of results by Cambodian authorities.
5. Next steps: Ongoing legal proceedings, investigations into associated financial networks.

The arrests mainly involve foreign nationals, with a high concentration in urban and tourist areas.

• The crackdown reduces the presence of criminal networks in the region, improving overall safety.
• Expats should be more cautious about enticing job offers, often used as bait by scammers.
• Local authorities are more responsive to reports of suspicious activity, making it easier to report.
• Identity checks and visa verifications may increase, especially for foreigners.
• Expats working in digital fields should verify the legality of their activities to avoid confusion.

1. Step 1: Never respond to unsolicited job offers promising easy money, especially in trading or customer service.
2. Step 2: Report any suspicious activity to local police or your embassy.
3. Step 3: Verify your employer's legality via the Ministry of Commerce or chambers of commerce.
4. Step 4: Never share your ID documents or bank details with strangers.
5. Step 5: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
6. Step 6: Stay informed about security alerts through expat networks and local media.
7. Step 7: When in doubt, contact a specialized lawyer or an expat association.