Foreigners Arrested for Illegal Detention and Torture of Multiple People in Cambodia
Bavet City, Cambodia – In a dramatic operation on December 4, 2025, eight foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the abduction, detention, and torture of six Chinese men in Bavet City, Svay Rieng Province. The case has shocked local residents and drawn international attention to the growing issue of foreign crime in Cambodia.
The Criminal Police Department of the Ministry of Interior stated that the suspects, who are from two different countries, took part in a violent crime that involved the abduction of a Chinese national. Following a swift investigation, the police managed to rescue the victims and seize evidence of torture.
Timeline of the Crime
At 00:55 on December 4, the suspects abducted a Chinese man from National Road 1 in Bavet Sangkat. The victim was forced into a white Range Rover with the license plate Phnom Penh 2CD-8488.
The Cambodian authorities immediately began tracking the suspects. Brigadier General Hun Monyroth, Colonel Hem Bona, and Colonel Chan Kimly led the investigation, working with the Svay Rieng Provincial Police. Thanks to their expertise, they quickly identified the location where the victim was being held.
Arrests and Victim Rescues
By 2:50 p.m. the same day, special forces had raided the location and arrested the suspects. The eight individuals were taken into custody, and six victims were rescued from the site. The police also found evidence of torture.
The arrested suspects include:
LI LING (Male, Chinese)
WANG JING (Male, Chinese)
AI NI (Male, Myanmar)
SAI AUNG XIENG (Male, Myanmar)
A SAN (Male, Myanmar)
AI LONG (Male, Myanmar)
SAN YI KUN (Male, Myanmar)
NI LIE (Male, Myanmar)
All six victims, also Chinese nationals, were freed from the location, and the police seized items linking the suspects to the crime. The suspects have been transferred to the Svay Rieng Provincial Police Headquarters for further investigation.
Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
During the operation, investigators collected crucial evidence suggesting the victims had been tortured. This evidence will play a key role as the case progresses through Cambodia’s legal system.
The Cambodian authorities are working closely with the embassies of China and Myanmar to handle the diplomatic aspects of the case. They are also committed to ensuring that justice is served.
Police Response and Reactions
Brigadier General Hun Monyroth praised the swift and coordinated police efforts, noting that the operation’s success shows the professionalism of the Cambodian law enforcement agencies. He emphasized the importance of acting quickly in cases of abduction and torture.
Colonel Hem Bona added, “This operation reflects our commitment to ensuring the safety of all people within Cambodia. We will continue to collaborate with international law enforcement to combat criminal activities like this.”
Local Community Concerns
The arrest of foreign criminals has raised concerns among local residents about the growing presence of international crime in Cambodia. Many residents are relieved that the victims were rescued, but some have voiced fears about similar incidents in the future, particularly in border areas like Bavet City.
While the Cambodian government is taking steps to address these concerns, the incident has underscored the need for greater vigilance in tackling transnational crime.
The Road Ahead
As the investigation continues, the Cambodian authorities are focused on making sure that all legal procedures are followed. The suspects face serious charges, including illegal detention, torture, and abduction.
Meanwhile, the victims are receiving medical care and psychological support as they begin their recovery. The case is likely to have long-term diplomatic and legal implications, and authorities are committed to ensuring justice is served.
