Cambodia shuts 91 casinos amid nationwide online scam crackdown
Cambodia has ordered the closure of 91 casinos linked to online scam operations as authorities step up a nationwide crackdown on cybercrime networks, alongside raids on more than 250 suspected scam centres across the country over the past nine months.
According to an official government statement reported by Xinhua News Agency, the raids targeted activities linked to online fraud, illegal gambling and other criminal networks as Cambodia continues efforts to dismantle scam compounds and foreign-run cybercrime operations.
The government said the 91 casinos were identified as either directly operating online scams or helping facilitate online fraud networks. The closures mark one of the clearest enforcement actions so far against land-based gaming venues suspected of being used as fronts for illicit digital operations.
The campaign forms part of a broader effort to dismantle scam compounds and foreign-run criminal networks that have drawn growing international attention.
Raids, deportations and voluntary departures
Authorities also confirmed that thousands of foreign nationals have been removed from the country as part of the operation. “Cambodian authorities have carried out procedures to deport a total of 13,039 foreign nationals involved in online scams of 33 different nationalities,” the statement said.
In addition, the government said a large number of people had left Cambodia voluntarily as enforcement activity increased. “From mid-January to April 19, 2026, a total of 241,888 individuals had voluntarily departed Cambodia,” it added.
The figures show how wide the crackdown has become and how it is affecting Cambodia’s foreign workforce, especially in areas linked to scam centres and illegal gambling activities.
Officials said the campaign is intended not only to target criminal activity but also to improve Cambodia’s international reputation, which has faced criticism over repeated reports linking the country to scam centres, human trafficking and forced labour operations.
Pressure from China grows
The announcement came shortly after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Phnom Penh and met Prime Minister Hun Manet on 22 April.
During the visit, Beijing urged Cambodia to strengthen efforts against cross-border gambling and online fraud, describing such activities as a serious threat to public safety and regional stability.
The issue has become an increasingly important part of Cambodia’s relationship with China, which has repeatedly called for stronger regional cooperation against transnational cybercrime.
Chinese authorities have raised concerns over scam operations based in Southeast Asia that target mainland Chinese citizens through fraudulent calls, online schemes and illegal gambling platforms.
Following his visit to Cambodia, Wang continued his regional tour to Thailand, where cybercrime and illegal online gambling were also part of diplomatic discussions.
The Cambodian government’s latest move is widely seen as part of an effort to show visible progress as scrutiny increases from China, the United States and other regional partners.
Tougher legal framework now in force
The casino closures also come as Cambodia tightens its legal response to online scam operations. A new law on combating online scams came into force on 6 April, introducing significantly tougher penalties for those involved.
Under the legislation, operators whose scams result in fatalities face prison terms ranging from 15 to 30 years or life imprisonment.
Ringleaders can receive between five and 10 years in prison. That increases to 10 to 20 years in cases involving violence, human trafficking, illegal detention or forced labour.
Lower-level participants face prison sentences of two to five years.
The law was promulgated by royal decree signed by Hun Sen, acting as head of state, after final approval by the Senate on 3 April, and it took immediate effect.
Officials said the stronger legislation is designed to support long-term enforcement efforts and improve cooperation between domestic agencies and foreign governments.
Long-term campaign against scam networks
Cambodian authorities said the fight against online scams will require sustained effort from both local and international stakeholders. “Cambodia would like to reaffirm that combating online scams is a long-term endeavor requiring the involvement of all stakeholders locally and internationally,” the statement said.
The government also urged the public and the international community “to recognise and support Cambodia’s active and concrete efforts in combating online scams.”
Recent reports have pointed to the fast spread of cyber scam networks across Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia and Myanmar, where criminal groups are accused of running large-scale fraud operations that target victims worldwide.
Governments including the United States have also taken action through sanctions and criminal charges against individuals and entities linked to these networks.
Manila’s calling and it’s not whispering. From 31 May to 03 June 2026, SiGMA Asia returns to the undisputed regional heavyweight. With 16,000 delegates, 3,040 operators, and 250+ speakers under one roof, this isn’t just an expo. It’s ignition!
