Court Orders Pre-Trial Detention of 12 Vietnamese and Chinese Suspects in Phnom Penh Investment-Scam Case

An investigating judge at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court has reportedly ordered the pre-trial detention of 11 Vietnamese nationals and one Chinese national. The report alleges that they organized a fraudulent investment scheme from an apartment in Phnom Penh’s Meanchey district. The reported detention order is a pre-trial measure, rather than a finding of guilt against the 12 suspects. Members of the public should verify offers promising guaranteed investment returns. The report said the alleged activity began in April 2026 and that the case invoked the law on combating fraud through technology systems. The 12 were reportedly sent to Phnom Penh’s PJ prison and Correctional Centre 2 (M2) to await proceedings. The law was promulgated on April 6, 2026; Article 24 provides for immediate implementation. The case concerns the protection of citizens’ and investors’ interests. Investors should remain cautious about offers of high returns and check whether projects are genuine.