Authorities in Phnom Penh have arrested eight Cambodian men believed to be part of a kidnapping and extortion ring that posed as law enforcement officers to target foreign nationals. The arrests follow a coordinated investigation across several provinces and included the seizure of handguns, police-style uniforms, handcuffs, and vehicles allegedly used in the crimes.
According to a statement released by Cambodia’s National Police on November 21, the group impersonated police officers to detain foreign victims at various locations around the capital. Their actions reportedly took place over multiple incidents, with the men using fake authority to intimidate victims and extort large sums of money.
The most recent case occurred on November 5 at approximately 3:20 a.m. The suspects allegedly kidnapped a 29-year-old Chinese national, identified as Long Jun, from his condominium in Phnom Penh’s Boeung Keng Kang district. Police said the group then extorted more than US$50,000 from him before releasing him.
Following this incident, the Phnom Penh Criminal Police Department launched an extensive investigation with assistance from police in all 14 districts of the capital, as well as units in Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, Siem Reap, and Preah Sihanouk provinces. Officers carried out surveillance, verified witness accounts, and tracked the suspects’ movements, ultimately leading to the arrest of all eight men.
In their official statement, police reported that all eight suspects confessed to involvement in at least six confirmed cases of kidnapping and extortion. The victims were primarily foreign nationals, though the extent of the network’s operations and whether more cases are linked remain under investigation.
A significant amount of evidence was seized during the arrests. Officers confiscated two Toyota Prius cars believed to have been used for transporting victims, along with four handguns—a pair of Glock 19 pistols, a Sig Sauer, and a Springfield Armory firearm. Police also recovered 38 rounds of ammunition, seven pairs of handcuffs, six mobile phones, and several pieces of clothing resembling official law enforcement uniforms. Among the items were four Royal Gendarmerie uniforms and two Gendarmerie identification card copies, which investigators say were likely used to deceive victims.
Authorities noted that four of the suspects were employed as drivers for Chinese clients. It has not yet been confirmed whether the people they robbed were among their employers or unrelated victims. Investigators are now reviewing phone records, financial transfers, and surveillance footage to determine the full extent of the operation.
The eight men are currently in custody and are being processed by the Phnom Penh Criminal Police Department. They are expected to face charges related to kidnapping, extortion, possession of illegal weapons, and impersonating law enforcement officers.
Police have urged foreign residents and travellers in Phnom Penh to remain vigilant and to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be an official. Authorities stated that further updates will be provided as the investigation continues and additional information becomes available.
