Cambodian authorities have arrested two Chinese nationals suspected of murdering an 18-year-old Cambodian woman, Heng Seavly, in an attempt to silence her from exposing their online scam operation.
At a Monday press briefing, the Criminal Investigation Department announced that officers had arrested 30-year-old Chen Cong, the victim’s boyfriend, and 34-year-old Li Haohao in Phnom Penh the previous day.
Police said the two suspects confessed to the murder, claiming they acted under orders from another Chinese national, 26-year-old Yang Kaixin, who remains at large.
A Deadly Cover-Up
Authorities believe Heng Seavly was being held against her will and forced to work as part of the scam operation. The suspects allegedly killed her because she had “learned many secrets” about the group and posed a threat to its members.
After receiving a complaint, police discovered Heng Seavly’s body on Saturday, buried in a shallow grave near a lake in Phnom Penh’s Dangkor district. She had been badly beaten and was found naked, according to investigators.
Family’s Desperate Search
Heng Seavly’s mother last heard from her daughter on February 27, when the young woman sent her $50.
Originally from Kampong Trach district in Kampot province, Heng Seavly had initially traveled to Preah Sihanouk province for work before relocating to Phnom Penh in mid-February. She reportedly followed a group of Chinese online workers to the capital—likely without knowing she was being lured into a dangerous scam operation.
Ongoing Investigation
While police have arrested two suspects, they are still searching for Yang Kaixin, who is believed to have orchestrated the killing.
Attempts to contact National Police spokesman Chhay Kimkhoeun and Heng Seavly’s mother for further details have been unsuccessful.
The case highlights growing concerns over Cambodia’s role in transnational crime, particularly online scam operations run by foreign nationals.
