• 2,000 suspects arrested in Cambodia's latest crackdown on cybercrime.
• Chinese nationals among those detained in raids across multiple provinces.
• Amnesty International highlights human rights abuses linked to online scam operations.
• Cambodian government intensifies efforts to eliminate cyber scam networks.
• Cambodia's actions come amid increasing regional tensions with Thailand.

In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, Cambodia has arrested around 2,000 suspects connected to online scam operations, as part of Prime Minister Hun Manet's directive for law enforcement to take decisive action against these illegal activities. This week, authorities expanded their scope to include raids in nine provinces, with the goal of making the country "no safe haven for online scammers," according to Information Minister Neth Pheaktra, who is part of the committee addressing online scams. The arrests include nationals from several countries, including Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indonesian individuals, highlighting the international nature of these operations according to Channel News Asia and The Jakarta Post.

Among the detained, over 226 Chinese nationals were identified, and authorities are processing some ringleaders for prosecution, while others may face deportation. Neth Pheaktra reiterated the government's commitment to dismantling scam networks, which are often linked to heinous crimes such as human trafficking and forced labor. Amnesty International emphasizes that abuses occurring within these scam compounds are vast, stating that these operations are carried out at an alarming scale across the country. Reports indicate the existence of at least 53 scam compounds in Cambodia where individuals are often lured under false pretenses, leading to their exploitation, according to findings from SCMP, Channel News Asia, and The Jakarta Post.

This crackdown not only aims to improve the country's image concerning online safety but also comes during heightened tensions with neighboring Thailand following a recent border skirmish. Reports indicate that this tension has led to further scrutiny over cross-border issues related to cybercrime and human trafficking, with Cambodian authorities willing to take stricter measures against offenders. “We will dismantle every scam network no matter where they hide,” Pheaktra reaffirmed, as the government faces mounting pressure to act decisively against these prevalent issues, according to SCMP, Channel News Asia, and The Jakarta Post.