Seven Chinese Nationals Arrested Off Cambodian Coast With 800kg of Drugs and 49 Firearms

Cambodian law enforcement has apprehended seven Chinese nationals in a large-scale operation off the shores of Preah Sihanouk province, confiscating more than 800 kilograms of suspected narcotics, 49 firearms, and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

According to the National Police, the operation was carried out on September 23 near Koh Russei in Preah Sihanouk's maritime zone. It was spearheaded by Touch Poleak, head of the Water Border Police Department, supported by the Maritime Crime Suppression Unit and the 240th Water Border Police Battalion stationed in the province.

Days of Investigation Led to the Bust

The arrests came after several days of intelligence gathering and investigative work that pointed authorities toward the suspects. Officers first intercepted a speedboat carrying two Chinese men, which then led them to two vehicles and the apprehension of five additional Chinese nationals.

During the operation, police recovered 42 sacks filled with a white crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine, weighing roughly 840 kilograms in total.

Massive Weapons Cache Also Seized

Beyond the suspected drugs, authorities also confiscated a significant arsenal: 10 long-barrel firearms, 39 handguns, 108 magazines, and 7,937 rounds of ammunition. Three motorcycles were also recovered at the scene.

All seven suspects and the seized evidence were handed over to the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Police Commissariat for further legal processing.

Officials have not yet disclosed where the suspected drugs and weapons originated or where they were headed.