M’sian Among 811 Arrested in Cambodia Over Online Scams Involving Emotional Calls & ‘Organ Sales’

One of those detained is a Malaysian national.

A total of 811 people were detained during the operation, including 776 Vietnamese citizens, 34 Chinese nationals and one Malaysian.

Among the schemes uncovered was a so-called “romance scam”, in which suspects would build online relationships with victims before persuading them to participate in supposed product investments or trading opportunities.

Police said the scammers mainly used popular social media and messaging platforms, including TikTok, WhatsApp, Zalo, Telegram and Facebook, to approach potential targets.

Victims, many believed to be from Vietnam, were allegedly lured into trusting the scammers through extended conversations and emotional manipulation before being convinced to transfer money for fake investments or transactions, The Cambodia China Times reported.

Authorities also uncovered another disturbing tactic used by the group. Some suspects reportedly posted messages on social media claiming to be looking for people willing to sell their organs.

Once victims responded, they were allegedly deceived and, in some cases, forced to remain at certain locations where they were pressured to participate in online scams.

Police said these individuals were then instructed to continue contacting victims through communication apps such as Facebook and Signal as part of a wider fraud network.

Investigations into the case are ongoing, and Cambodian authorities said those involved will be dealt with in accordance with the law.