Key facts
- Cambodia claims all large-scale online scam compounds have been eradicated.
- Authorities inspected 793 suspected locations, shutting down 624 sites.
- Nearly 30,000 suspects from 39 nationalities were detained.
- Over 58,000 foreign nationals were deported, with 22,000 linked to scam operations.
- 15 officials and law enforcement officers were arrested for corruption.
- Rights groups and analysts express skepticism about the claims.
The Cambodian government has claimed a significant milestone in its fight against online scams, with officials stating that all large-scale scam compounds have been eradicated in the country. Senior Minister Chhay Sinarith announced that authorities inspected 793 suspected locations, leading to crackdowns on 624 sites and the detention of nearly 30,000 suspects from 39 nationalities. He also reported that over 58,000 foreign nationals were deported, 22,000 of whom were linked to scam operations, and 15 officials were arrested for corruption.
However, human rights groups and analysts have expressed skepticism regarding the completeness of the eradication. Amnesty International noted that the multibillion-dollar industry's entrenched links in the country make complete elimination unlikely, and that the true test lies in prosecuting those responsible. Analysts also pointed out that criminal groups are adapting by moving to decentralized, small-scale activities hidden in various private locations, and that claims of eradication require independent verification.
Cambodian authorities acknowledge this shift and state they are continuing to target these smaller operations. The government plans to host an International Conference in September 2026 to foster global cooperation against online scams.