On July 16, 2025, Cambodia announced the arrest of over 1,000 suspects in a sweeping crackdown on cybercrime, ordered by Prime Minister Hun Manet.

The operation aims to combat the growing threat of online scams, which have been infiltrated by foreign criminal groups, especially in Southeast Asia, with police seizing equipment like computers and mobile phones.

Hun Manet's directive emphasizes maintaining security, public order, and social safety amid rising cyber threats.

Amnesty International has reported human rights abuses linked to cybercrime in Cambodia, including allegations of state complicity in operations run by Chinese gangs, involving trafficking, slavery, and torture.

In Poipet, a border town with Thailand, authorities arrested at least 270 Indonesians, including women, highlighting the area's reputation for cybercrime and illegal gambling.

Human rights organizations have highlighted severe abuses such as slavery, trafficking, and torture occurring in scamming compounds nationwide, with survivors describing horrific conditions.

The crackdown coincides with escalating tensions between Cambodia and Thailand over border disputes, with both nations engaging in hostile rhetoric and actions.

Survivors of these operations have reported being deceived, trafficked, and often held captive, sometimes with the apparent consent of the government.

The crackdown has led to arrests across at least five provinces, with notable numbers from Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Poipet, involving nationals from countries including Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.