Mines and Energy Minister Keo Rattanak has issued a firm warning to government officials and members of the Cambodian People's Party involved in illegal sand and rock businesses, stating that those who evade taxes or engage in fraudulent activities will face legal consequences. Speaking in a TikTok video, Rattanak emphasized that public funds must not be lost due to corruption, and he urged citizens to report illicit activities anonymously via a designated hotline.

The crackdown comes amid a mining sector boom, with revenues increasing by 250 percent since 2022. In the first seven months of 2024 alone, mining income surged nearly 300 percent compared to the same period in 2023. While this growth has contributed to national development and infrastructure, concerns have been raised about its environmental and social impact. In response, the government established the Sand Resource Management Committee in September 2024 to regulate dredging operations, a move welcomed by environmentalists who stress the need for transparency and public oversight.