Preah Sihanouk Province Television reported on July 23 that Phnom Penh held a special meeting on combating online fraud yesterday morning, reporting recent law-enforcement results and outlining measures for the next phase. At the meeting, Mayor Khuong Sreng stressed that online fraud had become a prominent threat to public safety and must be addressed firmly, swiftly and systematically to effectively maintain social order and protect the interests of the public.
During the meeting, Mayor Khuong Sreng said that although initial results had been achieved in the earlier crackdown, the situation remained severe and complex. He called on the Phnom Penh City Police Department to formulate a more targeted anti-fraud action plan and instructed all 14 district administrations across the city to conduct deeper community inspections, focusing on suspicious rental properties and areas where foreign nationals live in concentration. They were to strengthen lead screening and on-site verification and act according to the principle of “discover one and crack down on one.”
Khuong Sreng particularly emphasized that the fight against online fraud must proceed in accordance with laws and regulations and be fair and effective. During enforcement, the rights of lawful residents and business operators must be protected, while unlawful conduct must be met with “zero tolerance,” ensuring precise enforcement and decisive action. He also called on the chiefs of the various districts to work with village and sangkat authorities to establish a regular inspection mechanism, ensuring that the crackdown continues without leaving any blind spots.
At the meeting, Police Chief Chuon Narin reported that from July 2 to 19, law-enforcement authorities had dismantled 16 suspected online-fraud operation sites and taken 734 people involved in the cases into custody, with some cases having been formally filed for review. Police seized large quantities of electronic devices and key evidence connected to the cases at the sites, providing strong support for further investigation and enforcement.
The meeting concluded by stating that combating online fraud is a long-term and systematic undertaking requiring coordination among multiple departments and broad participation from all sectors of society. Phnom Penh will firmly implement Prime Minister Hun Manet’s directives, maintain a high level of pressure, accelerate institutionalized and regular governance, solidify the capital’s defense against online fraud, and create a safe and stable urban environment.
Compiled by this station
Editor: 林秋填
