Cambodian PM Vows to Eliminate Online Scams “At All Costs”
Cambodian PM Vows to Eliminate Online Scams “At All Costs”
PHNOM PENH, May 22, 2026 — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has ordered authorities to continue an uncompromising nationwide crackdown on online scam operations, declaring that eliminating cyber fraud networks is essential to protecting the country’s reputation.
Speaking during a full Cabinet meeting on Friday, Hun Manet instructed all law enforcement agencies to intensify operations against online scam syndicates “until they are completely eradicated,” according to an official government statement.
The Cambodian leader said the campaign must be carried out with “the highest sense of responsibility” because the issue directly affects the image and credibility of the country.
Hun Manet also praised local authorities and the National Police for recent large-scale operations targeting online scam networks, saying the authorities had achieved “major results” through consecutive crackdowns.
However, he acknowledged that some problems remained unresolved and warned that enforcement efforts must continue without relaxation.
The prime minister instructed ministries, provincial administrations, police forces and military police units nationwide to strengthen implementation of Cambodia’s “Safe Village-Commune-Sangkat Policy,” aimed at improving public security and crime prevention.
Authorities were told to apply strict measures to prevent and suppress crimes including online scams, drug offences, youth gang activity and illegal gambling.
The latest directive comes amid growing regional pressure on Southeast Asian governments to combat transnational cyber scam syndicates operating across border areas and major urban centres.
Cambodia has intensified operations in recent months, conducting multiple raids on suspected online scam compounds and detaining large numbers of foreign nationals linked to cyber fraud investigations.
Government officials have repeatedly stated that Cambodia will not allow the country to become a safe haven for international criminal organisations or technology-based fraud networks.
