Four arrested as Cambodia begins crackdown on illegal gambling

Jenny Ortiz December 12, 2024

SiGMA news

Cambodian authorities arrested four individuals in an anti-gambling operation on December 9 in Phnom Penh’s Boeung Keng Kang District. According to a report by Khmer Times, the raid was led by district governor Sok Sambath and targeted a property hosting various illicit gambling activities, including football betting, online cockfighting, and lotteries.

The operation was initiated after complaints from residents, who reported ongoing disruptions and insecurity caused by the activity. Local authorities confiscated four computers used for online gambling and have temporarily closed the premises. The detained individuals and seized materials were transferred to the district police inspectorate for further investigation.

Nationwide crackdown underway

The Phnom Penh raid preceded the launch of Cambodia’s broader crackdown on illegal gambling, which began on December 11. This nationwide initiative followed a seven-day ultimatum issued by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha, demanding that individuals and organisations involved in gambling activities cease operations immediately.

Authorities across the country are now intensifying efforts to dismantle gambling networks, shut down platforms, and arrest those responsible. The government’s objective is to restore public order and strengthen social safety by addressing both in-person and online gambling activities.

According to the local report, the Ministry of Interior has highlighted the role of social media in promoting illegal gambling. A rise in content glorifying gambling, including videos and promotional images, has been observed, with influencers and content creators contributing to its spread. This has led to public confusion and amplified the reach of such materials.

The government has instructed all involved to cease creating and sharing gambling-related content immediately. Social media accounts and websites promoting gambling are under strict surveillance, and non-compliance will result in legal action.

Local authorities take charge

Local authorities have been tasked with monitoring and preventing the spread of gambling-related content within their jurisdictions. As part of the Royal Government’s “Safe Villages, Communes, and Sangkats” policy, they are also leading public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of illegal gambling.

The Ministry of Interior stressed that community participation and increased awareness are vital to discouraging gambling and reducing its harmful impact on society.

Regional cooperation to combat crime

This crackdown ties into broader regional efforts to tackle cross-border crimes. Last month, Cambodia and China strengthened their collaboration to combat issues such as online gambling and cyber fraud. During the ASEAN Summits in Laos, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed their commitment to addressing these shared challenges.

Cambodia’s comprehensive campaign against illegal gambling reflects its dedication to public safety, regional cooperation, and curbing criminal activities that threaten societal stability.

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