The General Department of Immigration (GDI) has ordered border police to step up efforts to suppress online scams and all forms of cross-border cybercrimes. GDI director-general Sok Veasna described border forces as the “first line of defence against criminal activities”, and ordered increased investigations, and intelligence gathering.
He issued his instructions during a handover ceremony which saw Vong Chan, outgoing chief of the Chrey Thom International Border Checkpoint, replaced by Den Nimol.
Veasna urged officers to strictly implement specialised measures to identify suspects and prevent criminals from using Cambodian territory or cross-border routes to carry out technology-enabled scams.
“Border checkpoint forces are the first line of defence. They must work closely with all relevant authorities to stay abreast of developments and crack down on anyone who uses Cambodian territory or cross-border routes as a means of committing online crimes, in order to protect the country’s honour and reputation,” he said.
The immigration chief called on officers to strengthen controls over the entry and exit of foreign nationals, prevent illegal cross-border activities and use modern technology to manage data more effectively, thereby improving operational efficiency and safeguarding national security.
He also stressed that officers must maintain discipline, uphold professional ethics and strengthen cooperation with relevant authorities to ensure a timely response to criminal activities.
Beyond crime prevention, Veasna instructed the checkpoint staff to continue working with local authorities to facilitate trade, tourism and smooth cross-border travel. Officers were urged to provide prompt, accurate and courteous services to Cambodian citizens and international visitors.
The Chrey Thom border area was previously home to a major online scam operation at the 51-hectare Jin Zi Hui compound. During a raid on the premises, authorities freed numerous foreign nationals who had been trafficked and confiscated a total of 15,000 computers and mobile phones.
According to officials, the operation permanently shut down major scam centres in the area and also led to the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice to pursue a Chinese man who is purported to have behind the operation. The man remains at large.