Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has ordered authorities to intensify a nationwide crackdown on telecom fraud and online scam operations, warning that government officials suspected of protecting criminal networks will face investigation and disciplinary action.
The directive follows intelligence reports suggesting that some local officials may have tolerated or facilitated cyber scam activities operating within the country.
Prime Minister Issues Warning to Officials
According to local reports, Hun Manet delivered the warning in an internal audio message that circulated on social media on May 25. He stated that the government had received credible information indicating that certain provincial officials, district leaders, village chiefs, police officers, and military police personnel may have provided protection to scam networks.
The prime minister urged officials to choose between maintaining their public positions or continuing to benefit from relationships with criminal organizations. He stressed that authorities would investigate any suspected protection networks and take firm action against those found to be involved.
Hun Manet also emphasized that online scam groups primarily target victims outside Cambodia, creating broader reputational and security concerns for the country.
Local Authorities Ordered to Take Responsibility
As part of the crackdown, the prime minister instructed provincial administrations to address scam operations within their own jurisdictions rather than relying on intervention from central authorities.
He warned local governments against shifting responsibility to the national government and made it clear that provincial leaders would be held accountable for enforcement efforts in their respective regions.
The directive reflects a broader push to strengthen local enforcement and eliminate criminal activity linked to organized fraud networks.
Government Rejects Economic Concerns
Hun Manet also dismissed suggestions that stricter enforcement could negatively impact Cambodia’s economy.
He argued that the country has never depended on cyber scam operations as a source of economic activity and reiterated that telecom fraud undermines public safety, damages Cambodia’s international reputation, and threatens confidence in the country’s institutions.
During a cabinet meeting on May 22, the prime minister reportedly described online fraud as a growing challenge that requires stronger enforcement measures and closer cooperation between government agencies.
Senior Leaders Call for Stronger Action
Separately, Hun Sen, who currently serves as acting head of state, also called for decisive action against scam networks and individuals who facilitate their operations.
He warned that failure to dismantle both criminal organizations and their protective structures could create significant long-term risks for national security.
The latest statements signal an escalation in Cambodia’s efforts to combat cyber-enabled fraud and online scam activity, as authorities seek to address international concerns while strengthening enforcement against criminal networks operating within the country.
