Cambodia Closes Nearly 200 Scam Centers in Major Anti-Gambling Operation

Mass Closure of Scam Centers in Cambodia

In recent weeks, Cambodian authorities have shut down close to 200 scam hubs. This move is part of a larger campaign aimed at eradicating criminal operations involving thousands of foreign workers who operate call centers and other venues to defraud victims abroad.

International Pressure Intensifies Crackdown

The government’s intensified efforts follow growing international pressure, including a notable U.S. indictment and the extradition of a high-profile scam leader to China. This marks a more determined and forceful initiative than previous actions against such crimes.

Raids Uncover Large-Scale Criminal Facilities

Law enforcement has targeted establishments linked to a variety of illegal activities such as money laundering, extortion, romance scams, and illegal gambling. These raids could significantly disrupt these criminal networks in Cambodia.

One of the primary figures in these schemes, Kuong Li, was apprehended in mid-January after his involvement was exposed by international media in 2023, prompting a swift response from Cambodian law enforcement.

Investigations revealed sophisticated operations in cities like Sihanoukville, where employees used modern technology including computers and high-speed internet. The scams were adapted to target victims based on their nationality, including people from Thailand.

It is estimated that more than 7,000 individuals were involved in these scams, though many managed to flee during the police raids due to an insufficient local police presence.

Police Face Challenges Amid Large-Scale Escapes

Kampot’s provincial police chief explained that limited manpower severely hindered their ability to detain suspects, with only around 1,000 police and 300 military police available to manage thousands of suspects.

Despite these challenges, operations since last year have led to the arrest of 173 senior criminals and the deportation of approximately 11,000 scam workers.

High-Profile Extraditions and Consequences

In January, Cambodia extradited Chen Zhi, a wealthy businessman accused of orchestrating a huge cryptocurrency scam, to China where he is expected to face severe penalties, including the possibility of the death sentence.