Cambodian casino kingpin Heng Sithy, accused of running the country's largest online gambling network, was arrested in Russia.
Heng Sithy, a Cambodian businessman alleged to be the head of Cambodia's largest online casino network, has been arrested in Russia late night of January 14.
Cambodia's Foreign Ministry has notified its embassies worldwide of the cancellation of Heng Sithy's passport, and authorities have worked with Interpol to issue a Red Notice for his arrest. A Phnom Penh court issued the arrest warrant on December 3, 2024, charging him with aggravated threats and defamation.
Sithy had previously accused three senior government officials of corruption, filing a complaint with the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). However, the Interior Ministry dismissed his allegations and warned him against spreading baseless claims. While overseas, Sithy specifically accused Sokha of corruption and General Thet of accepting a $5 million bribe from online crime leader Phoo Gik Seng (also known as Tak) to protect premises involved in illegal online activities like human trafficking and forced labor from investigation.
Sithy had publicly announced plans to travel to Moscow, purportedly to meet with Vladimir Putin's cabinet. He also made vague statements about establishing "diplomatic groups and fighting groups," saying he would be in charge.
The 39-year-old has faced accusations of bribery and threats of financial repercussions. He reportedly prepared a letter to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet proclaiming his innocence, claiming he was "set up and got robbed" and that he had never done anything wrong in business.
Sithy further asserted that Cambodia has become a victim of "criminal money" due to government corruption. He appealed to the Prime Minister, stating that Cambodia "needs a real leader" with "heart…at the right place."
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