Amnesty Flags Cambodia Casinos Over Scam Links

Amnesty International has expressed concerns regarding several casino properties in Cambodia, stating that a number of licensed venues may be connected to abusive scam operations. The organisation claims that certain locations in Sihanoukville and border regions continue to hold valid licences despite alleged links to serious misconduct.

Concerns Over Licensed Venues

In its findings, Amnesty identified around a dozen casino sites that it believes are associated with scam compounds operated by local entities. These locations are spread across Sihanoukville as well as border areas including Poipet, Bavet and Chrey Thum.

The conclusions were based on a combination of official licensing records from the Commercial Gambling Management Commission, field research and testimonies from individuals described as survivors of these operations.

Multiple Operators Named

The report indicates that the issue spans several operators rather than being isolated to a single company. Among the sites highlighted were Crown Bavet Casino, Crown Resorts in Poipet and Crown Casino Chrey Thom, all linked to Anco Brothers Co Ltd.

Other properties mentioned include New Venetian Casino in Bavet, Casino Kyom (also known as My Casino), Marinan International and Peak Casino. Additional venues cited were Majestic Hotel & Casino and Majestic Two in Sihanoukville, along with Long Feng Xuan Casino, Huang International and Golden Sea Casino.

Amnesty clarified that the naming of certain properties does not imply any connection to similarly named international casino brands.

Allegations and Regulatory Questions

Montse Ferrer, Amnesty International’s co-regional director, stated that the findings suggest a connection between licensed casino operations and facilities accused of exploitation. She questioned why venues allegedly linked to such activities continue to receive regulatory approval.

The report raises broader concerns about the effectiveness of Cambodia’s licensing and oversight processes, particularly in regions where such activities have been reported.

Ongoing Scrutiny

Amnesty’s conclusions highlight what it describes as a disconnect between official efforts to combat scam operations and the continued licensing of certain venues. The findings have brought renewed attention to the role of regulation and enforcement in addressing these issues within the country’s gaming sector.