Cambodia Security Report — September 26, 2026

Security analysis based on open-source intelligence and web research. Period: September 19 — September 26, 2026.

Executive Summary

During the period of September 19-26, 2026, Cambodia's security landscape was primarily shaped by intensified efforts to combat cybercrime, persistent border tensions with Thailand, and evolving diplomatic relations with major powers. Phnom Penh hosted a significant international conference on online scams, showcasing its crackdown efforts while facing calls for deeper investigations into high-level networks. Concurrently, the long-standing border dispute with Thailand saw renewed accusations from Cambodia regarding territorial violations, even as both nations engaged in diplomatic and military discussions. Amidst these developments, Cambodia continued to balance its "ironclad friendship" with China with warming ties and the announced resumption of joint military exercises with the United States, underscoring a complex geopolitical balancing act.

Key Security Developments

• International Conference on Combating Online Scams Convenes in Phnom Penh
  From September 23-24, 2026, Cambodia hosted the International Conference on Combating Online Scams in Phnom Penh, bringing together representatives from over 20 countries, including the United States and China. Prime Minister Hun Manet declared that Cambodia would "never be a safe haven for online scams" and emphasized the government's commitment to eradicating criminal networks. The conference aimed to burnish Cambodia's anti-fraud credentials amidst international pressure.

• Cambodia Claims Dismantling of Large-Scale Scam Compounds
  Cambodian authorities reported the complete dismantling of all 86 large-scale scam compounds and the closure of 663 scam sites following a year-long nationwide crackdown. Officials stated that approximately $300 million in scam-related accounts had been frozen. However, authorities also conceded that criminal syndicates have adapted, shifting to decentralized, small-scale operations in rental homes, hotel rooms, and vehicles.

• Expanded Probe Targets High-Level Cybercrime Networks
  Cambodia announced an expansion of its cyber fraud investigation beyond raiding scam compounds to target high-level individuals and the financial networks that direct, enable, or protect these operations. A key focus of this expanded probe is the financial network of the Prince Group conglomerate, whose founder was previously arrested and deported to China in connection with the scams. This strategic shift comes as analysts note that many large-scale scam operations and their support networks remain active.

• Cambodia Accuses Thailand of Border Agreement Violations
  On September 23, 2026, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet accused Thailand of using anti-scam efforts as a pretext to attack and occupy Cambodian territory, specifically referencing Thailand's takeover of O'Smach Resort in December 2025. He stated that such actions were a "clear violation" of the December 27, 2025, ceasefire agreement. Thailand, in response, urged Cambodia to separate anti-crime cooperation from allegations of aggression or territorial occupation.

• Thailand Reports Cambodian Agreement to Remove Border Obstacles
  The Thai Army announced on September 17, 2026, that Cambodia had agreed to fill in a trench and remove barbed-wire barriers at Hill 450 near Chong Sa-ngam in Si Sa Ket province, following concerns raised by Thailand. This development was presented by the Thai side as a resolution achieved through bilateral talks, demonstrating that issues could be resolved through dialogue.

• UNCLOS Conciliation Commission Meets on Cambodia-Thailand Maritime Claims
  The UNCLOS Conciliation Commission concluded its first meeting between Cambodia and Thailand in Singapore from September 14-16, 2026, addressing overlapping maritime claims. This diplomatic engagement highlights ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing territorial and maritime disputes between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.

• Resumption of US-Cambodia Joint Military Exercises Announced
  Cambodia's army announced in early September 2026 that it would resume joint military exercises with the United States, dubbed "Exercise Angkor Sentinel 2027," in February next year, after a suspension of almost a decade. This move signals a warming of defense ties and a commitment to strengthening interoperability and disaster-response capabilities, despite Washington's past concerns about Cambodia's close ties with China.

• Deepening Cambodia-China "Ironclad Friendship"
  On September 22, 2026, Cambodia and China reaffirmed their "ironclad friendship" and comprehensive strategic partnership during celebrations for the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Bilateral trade reached $15.53 billion in the first eight months of 2026, marking a 22.3% year-on-year increase, with China remaining Cambodia's largest investor and trade partner. Both nations expressed deep satisfaction over cooperation in cracking down on online scams.

• US Updates Travel Advisory for Cambodia
  On September 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of State updated its travel advisory for Cambodia, urging citizens to "Exercise Increased Caution" due to crime, civil unrest, and unexploded ordnance. The advisory specifically warned against all non-essential travel to areas within 50 kilometers of the Cambodia-Thailand border, citing ongoing military tensions and armed conflict risks.

• UK and Cambodia Launch Joint Task Force on Online Scams
  The United Kingdom and Cambodia launched a joint task force to combat online scams, including a memorandum of understanding to boost intelligence sharing and victim protection. This initiative underscores the growing international cooperation aimed at tackling the transnational cybercrime industry affecting Cambodia and the wider region.

• Cambodia Reaffirms Defensive Military Modernization
  National Defence Minister General Tea Seiha reiterated Cambodia's commitment to modernizing its military for national defense and sovereignty, emphasizing a defensive posture with no intention of invading neighboring countries. This includes the acquisition of two corvettes, with the first Chinese-assisted Type 056-class vessel arriving at Ream Naval Base in April 2026.

• Diplomatic Engagements at UN General Assembly
  On September 25, 2026, Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn met with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly (UNGA81) to discuss cooperation on demining and regional and international developments. This engagement highlights Cambodia's continued participation in multilateral forums to address global security challenges.

Geopolitical Impact and Regional Dynamics

Cambodia's security developments during this period reflect a delicate balancing act within a complex regional and international environment. The intensified crackdown on cybercrime and the hosting of an international conference in Phnom Penh demonstrate Cambodia's response to significant pressure from both China and the United States, who are major victims of these scams. While this effort aims to restore Cambodia's international reputation, the continued skepticism from analysts and the shift of scam operations to smaller, decentralized units suggest that the underlying issues, potentially involving elite protection networks, remain a challenge. The cooperation with China and the UK on this front also highlights the transnational nature of cybercrime and the necessity of multilateral responses.

The persistent border tensions with Thailand continue to be a significant destabilizing factor in regional stability. Cambodia's accusations of territorial violations by Thailand, despite a previously brokered ceasefire, underscore the fragility of their relationship. The involvement of the UNCLOS Conciliation Commission and the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) indicates regional and international recognition of the dispute's potential for escalation. This ongoing friction diverts resources and attention, potentially impacting ASEAN's collective security efforts and presenting opportunities for external actors to exert influence.

The warming of Cambodia-US relations, marked by the announced resumption of joint military exercises and reduced US tariffs, represents a strategic shift for Phnom Penh. This move allows Cambodia to signal a degree of strategic autonomy and diversify its defense partnerships, potentially mitigating over-reliance on China. However, Cambodia's "ironclad friendship" with China remains robust, evidenced by strong trade figures, Chinese investment, and military assistance, particularly at Ream Naval Base. This dual engagement strategy allows Cambodia to leverage benefits from both major powers but also places it in a precarious position, navigating the intensifying US-China rivalry in Southeast Asia. The US travel advisory, specifically warning against the Thai-Cambodian border, also highlights the continued perception of security risks in certain areas, which could impact tourism and foreign investment.

Military and Defense Analysis

Cambodia's military and defense posture during this period reflects a continued focus on modernization for national defense and sovereignty, alongside efforts to balance external military engagements. The National Defence Minister General Tea Seiha reiterated that Cambodia's defense modernization is defensive in nature, aimed at protecting its territory and national interests without aggressive intent towards neighbors. A key aspect of this modernization is the acquisition of naval assets, specifically two Type 056-class corvettes with Chinese assistance, the first of which arrived at Ream Naval Base in April 2026. These vessels are equipped with advanced weaponry, enhancing Cambodia's maritime defense capabilities.

The decision, announced in July 2025, to implement military conscription starting in 2026 underscores Cambodia's commitment to addressing personnel shortages and upgrading its military capabilities, particularly in light of persistent border tensions with Thailand. This policy aims to bolster the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) and ensure readiness. Defense spending remains a significant portion of the national budget, with US$739 million allocated for defense in 2025 out of a US$9.32 billion national budget, indicating a sustained investment in military strength.

The announced resumption of "Exercise Angkor Sentinel 2027" with the United States in February next year marks a significant development in Cambodia's military diplomacy. After nearly a decade of suspension, these joint drills aim to strengthen interoperability and disaster-response capabilities, signaling a renewed momentum in Cambodia-US military cooperation. While this move helps diversify Cambodia's defense partnerships, its close military ties with China, including Chinese assistance at Ream Naval Base, continue to be a point of interest and concern for the United States. Cambodia's participation in multinational counter-terrorism exercises, such as the Aman Youyi 2023 with China and other ASEAN nations, further demonstrates its commitment to regional security cooperation.

Outlook and Forecast

Short-term trends (1-3 months): In the immediate future, Cambodia will likely continue to emphasize its commitment to combating online scams, particularly following the international conference. We can expect further announcements regarding arrests and the dismantling of smaller, decentralized scam operations. Diplomatic efforts to manage the border dispute with Thailand will remain active, with potential for further discussions or minor incidents. The warming ties with the US and the upcoming joint military exercises will likely be highlighted by Phnom Penh as a sign of balanced foreign policy, while economic and military cooperation with China will continue unabated.

Critical flashpoints and risk areas: The Cambodia-Thailand border remains a critical flashpoint, with the potential for renewed skirmishes or heightened rhetoric, especially around disputed areas like Hill 450 and the O'Smach Resort area. The effectiveness of Cambodia's anti-scam crackdown in targeting high-level perpetrators and financial networks will be a key indicator of its long-term success, as the shift to smaller operations suggests the problem is far from eradicated. The ongoing geopolitical competition between the US and China, particularly concerning Ream Naval Base, could also create diplomatic friction for Cambodia.

Indicators to monitor: Key indicators to monitor include the frequency and scale of reported cybercrime incidents, particularly those involving human trafficking; the progress of border demarcation talks and any new incidents along the Thai-Cambodian frontier; the nature and scope of upcoming joint military exercises with both the US and China; and the trajectory of foreign direct investment from both Western and Chinese sources. Statements from international bodies like the UNODC and the FBI regarding Cambodia's anti-scam efforts will also be important.

Strategic recommendations: Cambodia should prioritize sustained and transparent efforts to dismantle the entire cybercrime ecosystem, including prosecuting high-level facilitators and strengthening financial regulations. Continued engagement in multilateral forums and bilateral dialogues is crucial for peacefully resolving border disputes with Thailand, adhering strictly to international law and existing agreements. To maintain a balanced foreign policy, Cambodia should continue to diversify its defense and economic partnerships, ensuring that engagements with major powers contribute to its national interests and regional stability without compromising its sovereignty. Furthermore, investing in cybersecurity infrastructure and public awareness campaigns against online scams will be vital for long-term resilience.

Sources

• nationthailand.com
• afp.com
• inquirer.net
• kslm.news
• digitaljournal.com
• khmertimeskh.com
• scmp.com
• thestar.com.my
• straitstimes.com
• bssnews.net
• facebook.com
• nationthailand.com
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• mfaic.gov.kh
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• straitstimes.com
• khmertimeskh.com
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• facebook.com
• khmertimeskh.com
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• interior.gov.kh
• khmertimeskh.com
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