Cambodia Says It Is Investigating Deng Pibing Over Alleged Online Scam Activities at Long Bay
Chhay Sinarith, a senior minister in charge of special missions and head of the Secretariat of the Commission for Combating Technology-Facilitated Scams
PHNOM PENH, October 13, 2026 — Cambodian authorities are investigating Chinese-born Cambodian businessman Deng Pibing over suspected activities linked to the Long Bay development project in Koh Kong province, according to Chhay Sinarith, a senior minister in charge of special missions and head of the Secretariat of the Commission for Combating Technology-Facilitated Scams.
Chhay Sinarith issued the clarification in response to an investigative documentary by international broadcaster Al Jazeera, which alleged that the large-scale tourism development in the Dara Sakor area concealed online scam operations and activities related to drugs.
According to Chhay Sinarith, Cambodian authorities took action at the Long Bay development site in February 2026 after identifying several buildings suspected of being connected to online scam operations. He said suspected criminal groups had fled the premises, leaving behind evidence believed to be linked to technology-facilitated fraud.
Authorities in Koh Kong subsequently detained several suspects, seized evidence for further investigation, and sealed and secured the site, he said.
On September 5, 2026, Prime Minister Hun Manet personally visited locations under official control in Koh Kong to review progress. He instructed the responsible authorities to maintain strict control over the premises and evidence and to conduct thorough investigations, according to Chhay Sinarith.
Regarding Deng Pibing, Chhay Sinarith said Cambodian authorities were continuing to investigate suspected activities associated with the Long Bay development.
A report from the General Department of Immigration indicated that Deng had left Cambodia in late May 2026. Chhay Sinarith added that information from specialist sources indicated that Interpol had issued a notice for Deng. The statement did not provide further details about the notice.
Al Jazeera’s investigative documentary examined the Long Bay tourism development in Koh Kong province and alleged that the project was linked to concealed online scam operations and drug-related activities. The report identified Deng, a Chinese-born Cambodian businessman associated with Zhengheng Group, as being connected to the development.
The allegations concerning the project and Deng’s suspected activities remain subject to investigation. The Cambodian authorities’ response outlines actions taken at the site and confirms that inquiries into Deng are ongoing.
