PHNOM PENH: The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has identified another official who is allegedly linked to a corruption and money-laundering case involving Prek Ksach commune chief Riem Rom in Kiri Sakor district, Koh Kong province.
Phe Phatpheng is a lieutenant in the immigration police.
According to the ACU, Phatpheng’s alleged involvement was uncovered through scam ringleader Cai Youyuan, who headed a group of 42 scammers operating in Prek Ksach commune. Cai is also allegedly a member of several other online scam groups.
The ACU said Cai brought Chinese scammers into Cambodia through Techo International Airport with the assistance of Phatpheng, who allegedly facilitated their entry and prepared the necessary documents. Several individuals who had previously been blacklisted where reportedly able to enter the Kingdom thanks to the arrangement.
According to the ACU, Phatpheng charged service fees ranging from $380 to $420 to arrange entry into Cambodia using business visas, $900 for e-commerce entry, $120 through tourist visas and $450 for VIP fast-track border clearance.
Between January and June 2026, Phatpheng allegedly earned more than $200,000 from his activities, using the income generated from 301 cases to buy a car and a house.
The ACU said the Phnom Penh Municipal Court prosecutor has charged Phatpheng with abuse of power, conspiracy to commit technology-based fraud and money laundering.
Four people have so far been charged and detained in the case involving Prek Ksach commune chief Riem Rom, who allegedly allowed the scam group to operate on his five-hectare property; Chin Sopan, a former deputy police chief of Kiri Sakor district, who allegedly facilitated the group’s activities; and Chea Suth and Chea Veasna, who are allegedly linked to efforts to conceal offenders. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
