Authorities have arrested 10 Vietnamese nationals suspected of involvement in online scam operations during raids on 10 apartment buildings in Bavet City, Svay Rieng province. The joint operation was led by Svay Rieng Deputy Governor Men Eng and took place at Borey RT Residence in Tabep village, Bavet commune.
During the operation, officers inspected the premises and identified 48 foreign nationals, including 29 Chinese and 19 Vietnamese citizens. All 48 were found to hold valid passports and visas. However, authorities detained another 10 Vietnamese nationals suspected of involvement in scam activities and seized mobile phones, computers and passports for further investigation.
“The Bavet operation highlights Cambodia’s continuing efforts to disrupt suspected cyber fraud activities operating from residential properties. Authorities detained 10 Vietnamese nationals during coordinated raids on 10 apartment buildings and seized 12 mobile phones, 12 computers and 10 passports. The operation also found 48 other foreign nationals with valid passports and visas, showing the authorities’ focus on distinguishing lawful residents from people suspected of criminal activity. The suspects have been transferred to the Anti Technology Crime Office at Svay Rieng Provincial Police Headquarters for questioning and processing. For Bavet, a major border city with significant commercial activity, enforcement against suspected scam operations is also important for protecting its business environment, maintaining public confidence and strengthening Cambodia’s broader response to cyber fraud.”
Authorities Target Suspected Scam Operations in Bavet
The coordinated raids focused on apartment buildings suspected of being used to host cyber fraud operations. The operation was carried out in Borey RT Residence in Tabep village, reflecting an enforcement approach that targets suspected scam activity at locations where criminal operations may be conducted.
Authorities found 48 foreign nationals during their inspection, including 29 Chinese nationals and 19 Vietnamese nationals. All had valid passports and visas, but a separate group of 10 Vietnamese nationals was detained because of suspected involvement in scam operations.
Phones and Computers Seized for Investigation
Officers seized 12 mobile phones, 12 computers and 10 passports during the operation. These items were taken as part of the investigation into the suspected scam activities and could provide authorities with evidence for questioning and further processing.
The 10 suspects were transferred to the Anti Technology Crime Office at the Svay Rieng Provincial Police Headquarters. Their transfer allows investigators to conduct further questioning and determine the appropriate next steps based on the findings.
Bavet Faces Growing Importance in Cybercrime Enforcement
Bavet is a major commercial location in Svay Rieng province, making efforts to protect its business environment particularly important. Crackdowns on suspected scam operations can help reinforce confidence among legitimate businesses, workers and visitors operating in the city.
The operation also demonstrates the importance of coordinated enforcement when authorities investigate suspected cyber fraud. As Cambodia continues efforts to address scam related activities, identifying suspected operational locations and examining digital equipment remain important parts of the enforcement process.
A Signal for Businesses and Property Operators
The arrests also underline the need for property owners and operators to remain alert about activities taking place on their premises. Residential and commercial properties can become part of investigations when authorities suspect that criminal operations are being conducted from them.
For businesses and investors, a secure and trusted operating environment is an important part of Cambodia’s economic development. Continued enforcement against suspected cyber fraud can help protect legitimate commercial activity while strengthening confidence in cities such as Bavet.
Conclusion
The arrest of 10 Vietnamese nationals in Bavet follows a coordinated inspection of 10 apartment buildings suspected of hosting cyber fraud operations. With computers, phones and passports seized, the investigation will now focus on determining the suspects’ involvement and gathering further evidence.
The operation sends a clear message that suspected scam activities remain a law enforcement priority. For Cambodia’s business and investment environment, effective action against cyber fraud is essential to maintaining trust, protecting legitimate enterprises and supporting a safer digital economy.