(Phnom Penh): Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of Cambodia, stated that Cambodia is a genuine victim of transnational online scam networks, while calling for stronger investigations and international cooperation to trace how foreign criminals entered the country.

Samdech Techo spoke on Sunday (May 24) during a meeting with leaders of ministries, institutions, and local councils across Phnom Penh.

Samdech Techo warned that online scam syndicates have damaged Cambodia’s image, honour, and national dignity.

He also urged the Royal Government and the Ministry of Interior to thoroughly investigate arrested suspects, particularly those lacking valid travel documents, in order to identify the countries and border routes used before entering Cambodia.

“Cambodia does not have long-haul direct international flights, so it is clear that we are victims in this situation,” he added, questioning how individuals without passports could have reached the country.

He underlined the need to determine which transit countries were used and called for close cooperation with immigration authorities to gather accurate information that can be shared with the international community.

On the occasion, Samdech Techo expressed concern over attempts to place sole blame on Cambodia, despite indications that many criminal networks operated across multiple countries before reaching Cambodian territory.

InReferring to a recent case involving the murder of a South Korean national at Bokor Mountain, Samdech Techo Hun Sen revealed that suspects had been arrested in Thailand and said the masterminds appeared to be based there.

He added that online scam activities not only tarnish Cambodia’s reputation but also discourage investment and tourism, reaffirming that Cambodia’s economy does not depend on cyber scam operations.
=FRESH NEWS