Cambodia labels gambling scams a global threat in Timor-Leste
Cambodia’s Senate President, Hun Sen, has called on world leaders to increase efforts against online scams and illegal gambling, describing these issues as transnational threats necessitating coordinated international action, according to local media reports.
Speaking at the Presidential Palace in Dili, Timor-Leste, during a three-day official visit, Hun Sen highlighted the escalating challenge posed by cybercrime. Hun Sen emphasised that no single country can tackle the issue alone. He also criticised nations that have accused Cambodia of being a hub for online scams, arguing that such crimes are a global issue requiring shared responsibility.
“Online scams are not occurring in Cambodia alone. It’s a global issue. I question why some countries are so quick to blame Cambodia instead of taking responsibility for educating their people,” Hun Sen stated. “Combatting illegal online gambling and scams is more difficult than fighting drugs because these crimes can be committed from anywhere in the world with just an internet connection,” he added.
Cambodia’s homefront measures
Hun Sen’s remarks in Timor-Leste are especially timely, given that the country recently issued its first-ever offshore gambling licence, despite remaining mired in numerous allegations of money laundering and fraud.
Back home, Cambodia is taking significant steps to address the issue domestically. This year, Prime Minister Hun Manet established a high-level commission to combat online scams—an empowered task force responsible for coordinating efforts across ministries and law enforcement agencies.
The commission has been tasked with developing and implementing strategies to prevent, suppress, and combat online scams, while also monitoring the effectiveness of these measures.
In addition, Cambodian authorities are conducting a widespread crackdown on illegal online activities. So far, police have dismantled countless illegal websites. In January 2025, Cambodian authorities launched a major operation in Phnom Penh’s Steung Meanchey III commune, arresting over 300 Chinese and Vietnamese nationals suspected of operating illegal online gambling activities.
Online scam hubs rising in Asia
Hun Sen’s remark also coincides with a rise in cybercrime in Southeast Asia, a region known for online scams often linked to human trafficking and fraudulent job offers. In 2023 alone, cybercriminals in Southeast Asia are estimated to have stolen around $37 billion (€33.29 billion) through various online scams, including investment fraud and illegal gambling.
China has been particularly vocal in urging neighbouring countries to crack down on such activities, especially following high-profile cases involving Chinese nationals being lured into scam operations under false pretences.
