Governor Kuoch Chamroeun of Preah Sihanouk says the Cambodian province will step up efforts to prevent human trafficking and other illegal activities in local casinos. Prime Minister Hun Sen announced the crackdown amid reports of rising crime in the industry.
According to the Khmer Times, gaming operators must now be licensed by both local authorities and the central government. Underground operations will be prohibited.
In another measure, casino owners “are no longer allowed to keep the passport, identification card or working permit of any staff,” Chamroeun said, referring to operators who reportedly have held staff against their will.
“Casino owners are no longer allowed to hide their location or operate with high fences,” he said. “Casino owners can no longer ban their staff from going out of the casino. Casino owners will face legal action if they go against any of these rules. If you do not follow any of the administrative rules and regulations, you will be closed down.”
Chamroeun also said the provincial authority would strengthen border security to prevent casino operators or others from smuggling in foreign labor.
“Authorities have found and rescued many foreigners who have been tricked into working unlawfully and have been inspecting business locations to check on foreign labor,” the governor said.
There are 68 casinos in Preah Sihanouk, and authorities are now compiling a database of information about their locations, ownership and staff.
