PHNOM PENH, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian police have detained 63 Thai nationals for preparing to conduct illicit online activities, the Interior Ministry's Investigation and Crime Suppression Command said in a press release on Tuesday.
The apprehension was made on Saturday during coordinated raids on two locations in northwest Banteay Meanchey province's Poipet City on the border with Thailand, the statement said.
"These operations were undertaken following an extensive period of investigation and surveillance into suspected online criminal activities," it said.
"During these operations, police apprehended a total of 63 Thai nationals, comprising 30 females and two minors," it added.
The raids also led to the confiscation of substantial evidence, including 33 computers, 65 mobile phones, 65 Thai identity cards, and two Thai passports.
"A preliminary assessment of the collected evidence indicated that the individuals involved were preparing to engage in illicit online activities, utilizing Cambodian territory as an operational base to conduct offenses targeting foreign jurisdictions," the press release said.
It noted 46 individuals were found living under restricted conditions that limited their freedom of movement. However, no evidence suggested that they were victims of physical violence or human trafficking.
"Investigators also identified seven Thai nationals, including one female as masterminds behind the criminal operation," it said.
As for the 56 Thai nationals, the Cambodian National Police will request cooperation with Thai authorities to facilitate their deportation from Cambodia based on their requests, the press release said.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings concerning the seven suspects are ongoing at the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Police Commissariat, it added. ■
