Cambodian authorities have intensified their crackdown on online scam operations, arresting over 500 suspects in two provinces, bringing the total detained since June 27 to more than 2,100.

The raids targeted 43 locations and involved foreign nationals from countries including Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and Bangladesh.

The crackdown, backed by Prime Minister Hun Manet, comes amid growing international criticism over Cambodia’s role in global cybercrime.

Many scam centers reportedly exploit foreign workers under threats of violence, the Associated Press has reported.

Human rights groups welcome the effort but stress it comes after years of inaction and alleged police complicity.

Written by B.C. Begley