Thai and Cambodian authorities have intensified efforts against transnational crime, targeting call center scams and online gambling networks operating from Poipet. Senior Inspector General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot led a diplomatic mission to Cambodia, securing commitments from officials to help dismantle Thai-led scam operations that exploit legal loopholes. This follows Cambodia’s recent crackdown, which resulted in 119 arrests, mostly Thai nationals involved in fraud targeting victims in Thailand.

Meanwhile, Thai cyber police arrested key members of an online gambling ring linked to the same network. Investigators discovered they had been running illegal gambling platforms from Cambodia, recruiting thousands of players for Hi-Lo and Pok Deng card games. Five suspects were caught livestreaming gambling sessions from a resort in Thailand, leading to the seizure of phones, gaming equipment, and financial records.

Authorities say these arrests mark a turning point in the fight against cross-border crime, with suspects now facing charges under Thailand’s tough transnational crime laws. While many previously escaped serious punishment by claiming to be trafficking victims, new measures allow for up to 15-year sentences and asset seizures. Officials emphasize that this crackdown sends a strong warning to those exploiting cross-border vulnerabilities for criminal gain.

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