Background
On March 1, 2026, the National Police of Cambodia conducted coordinated anti-narcotics operations across the country resulting in significant arrests and seizure of illegal drugs. This effort aligns with Cambodia’s ongoing security and drug control policy enforcement.
Scope of Application
The operation was nationwide, involving 11 police units from different provinces including Phnom Penh, Battambang, Kampong Chhnang, Kampot, Ratanakiri, and Siem Reap.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The operation included 17 separate cases leading to the arrest of 80 suspects, comprising 12 females. The cases were categorized into drug trafficking (4 cases, 39 suspects), drug transportation and storage (11 cases, 30 suspects), and drug use (2 cases, 11 suspects).
Seized narcotics totaled:
- Methamphetamine (Ice): 68.25 grams
- Methamphetamine (Wy): 12.60 grams
- Ketamine (Ke): 301.31 grams
Notably involved police units included:
- Phnom Penh: 1 trafficking case, 3 arrests, 0.49g Ice, 12.60g Wy seized
- Battambang: 1 storage case (4 arrests, incl. 1 female), 1 use case (1 arrest), 10.14g Ice seized
- Kampong Chhnang: 3 storage cases (6 arrests), 9.12g Ice seized
- Kampot: 1 storage case (1 arrest), 1 detection case (1 arrest), 0.33g Ice seized
- Ratanakiri: 1 storage case (1 arrest), 0.21g Ice seized
- Siem Reap: 1 storage case (5 arrests, 2 females), 1 use case (10 arrests), 2.45g Ice seized
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The data reflects ongoing government vigilance on narcotics-related crime, indicating the security environment and law enforcement priorities. Businesses and investors should be aware of the strict anti-drug enforcement climate maintained by the National Police.
Official Source
National Police of Cambodia official report, March 1, 2026
