Phnom Penh Police Rescue Woman, Arrest Chinese National in Illegal Detention Case

Phnom Penh police recently cracked a case involving illegal detention and extortion in Phnom Penh, successfully rescuing a Cambodian woman and arresting a Chinese national.

The operation was carried out by the unified command team of the Boeung Keng Kang District administration, led by District Governor Sok Sambath, during a raid conducted on January 27, 2026.

Police searched two rooms on the 36th floor of a residential building, AGILE SKY RESIDENCE, located on Monivong Boulevard. One suspect was apprehended at the scene in connection with an alleged case of unlawful confinement and extortion involving USD 5000.

According to police investigations, the suspect was identified as REN XIAOPENG, 42 years old, a Chinese national. The victim is a 23-year-old Cambodian woman working in the retail sector in Phnom Penh.

Investigations revealed that both parties checked into the above-mentioned location together on January 23. On January 26, the suspect allegedly used the victim’s mobile phone without authorization to send messages to her family, demanding USD 5000. The family immediately reported the incident to the police, who then launched prompt action.

During the on-site search, police seized multiple items, including:

• A passport and foreign work-related documents
• Several items suspected to be prohibited substances
• Electronic weighing scales and related equipment
• Metal chains and other items

At present, the suspect, along with the seized evidence, has been transferred to the local police station, and the case is being handled in accordance with legal procedures.

Police emphasized that they will continue to intensify efforts against illegal detention, extortion, and related criminal activities to safeguard public security and the safety of residents in the capital.