Phnom penh: More than 210,000 suspected foreign scammers have left Cambodia voluntarily amid heightened operations against cyber-scams, according to estimations by authorities. This large-scale departure follows intensified efforts that began in June of last year to combat online fraud.
According to Anadolu Agency, several ringleaders are still under active investigation after fleeing their bases. The Ministry of Information revealed this ongoing pursuit on Wednesday. Since the crackdown began, joint task forces have conducted raids at approximately 2,500 locations, dismantling around 200 major cases of online fraud.
Throughout these operations, authorities seized more than 46,000 pieces of technological equipment. Over 8,000 foreign nationals have been processed for deportation as part of the crackdown. Cambodian courts have also processed cases against more than 500 individuals, including high-profile ringleaders and their associates.
In coordination with international partners, numerous victims, who were trafficked into “scam factories” and forced to work for criminal networks, have been rescued. Phnom Penh is also in the process of drafting a new law on counter-cybercrime. This legislation aims to establish a framework with severe penalties to prevent future illicit digital activities and ensure a safe digital environment.
