Since June 2025, the Royal Government of Cambodia has intensified its crackdown on cybercrime, translating bold words into decisive action. With a sweeping nationwide campaign, authorities have arrested over 3,170 individuals of 19 nationalities across 72 operations, starting from June 27 until August 18. Of them, more than 2,450 were deported from Cambodia and 66 individuals sent to court for prosecution.
It should be highlighted that on-going efforts have let to the recent arrest of 14 key figures involved in cases of murder and human trafficking in Kampot province. This was one of the major operations to crack down on online scam-related crimes since June, freeing trafficked individuals and dismantling scam syndicates and exploitation hub.
The efforts underscore Cambodia’s unwavering determination to confront online fraud and to build public trust with more than rhetoric — by resolute, unified action. The government’s July 15 directive mandated that provincial governors, police chiefs and relevant authorities must act swiftly — or face consequences. “Failure to comply or cooperate in any form will be subject to evaluation for appointment, transfer, or termination of positions”. The message is clear: this is a national mission.
Over the past three years, the campaign by the government of Cambodia and its ministries, institutions, the Capital and Provincial Administrations and other relevant authorities has cracked down on more than 24,000 criminals involved in online scams and human trafficking. Of these, 23,990 foreigners were deported from Cambodia. At the same time, authorities rescued victims of trafficking and online fraud, freeing more than 4,800 people, representing 27 nationalities.
These highlight how the sweeping campaign against cybercrime has elevated its intensity in all areas across the Kingdom. Even remote provinces are now under scrutiny — a powerful signal that no corner of the Kingdom is beyond the radar. The rigorous law enforcement is consistently implemented for maintaining security and public order, and ensuring social safety. More than that, it is a commitment to protecting people, the economy and the Kingdom’s reputation on the global stage.
Despite being a small country, Cambodia has shown its big heart and big ambition to combat not only online scams, but also all forms of illegal activity that threaten development, prosperity and security. These efforts safeguard Cambodian society and ensure safety for tourists, travellers, investors, business owners and workers — both local and foreign, upholding human rights and the rule of law.
In truth, Cambodia is a victim of these borderless crimes, infiltrated by sophisticated international networks. Unlike those who point fingers, Cambodia has taken concrete steps — raids, arrests, deportations and the rescue of trafficking victims. Between June and mid-August 2025 alone, over 2,450 foreign scammers were deported out of more than 3,000 arrested, while 66 ringleader suspects and their accomplices were sent to court for prosecution.
Under the slogan: “Together, we will clean the garbage from our homes!” Cambodia continues to intensify efforts to eradicate criminal networks and restore confidence in the nation’s digital and physical spaces.
Cybercrime and online scams are borderless challenges, requiring systematic cooperation between nations. No country has ever completely eradicated traditional crimes; therefore, it is unrealistic to expect any nation to singlehandedly defeat complex, technology-driven crimes. What is possible — and essential — is regional and global collaboration.
Cambodia stands ready to strengthen cooperation with neighbours, partners and international actors to dismantle networks of fraud, gambling and cybercrime. In doing so, Cambodia is contributing not only to the safety and well-being of its people, but also to regional peace, global security and sustainable prosperity.
Sok Sant is a social-political analyst. The views and opinions expressed are his own.
