US Imposes Sanctions on Cambodian Senator Linked to Crypto Scams and Human Trafficking

WASHINGTON DC, KOMPAS.com — The United States government has imposed sanctions on Cambodian Senator Kok An along with 28 other individuals and entities. They are accused of involvement in a cryptocurrency scam network targeting US citizens. The US Department of the Treasury states that Kok An used political connections to protect the operation. The modus operandi involved approaching victims through personal or romantic relationships to convince them to transfer digital assets with promises of high returns. The funds sent were immediately controlled by the perpetrators. The Department of the Treasury also uncovered human trafficking practices in this case. Victims were reportedly brought to specific complexes and forced to carry out the scams under threats of violence. “Eliminating fraud is a top priority for the Trump administration,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. “The Department of the Treasury will continue to target scammers and scam centres that steal billions of dollars from hardworking Americans, wherever they operate or how strong their connections are,” he added. Two suspects were arrested in Thailand in 2026 for immigration violations. The task force involved the US Attorney’s Office, Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and US Secret Service.