US Sanctions Cambodian Tycoon Over Human Trafficking and Scam Centers
The sanctions target Ly Yong Phat and his businesses for their involvement in forced labor and fraudulent schemes.
Overview
- The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Cambodian businessman Ly Yong Phat and several of his entities for human rights abuses.
- Ly Yong Phat is accused of trafficking workers and forcing them to operate scam centers, including O-Smach Resort.
- Victims reported severe mistreatment, including confiscation of passports, forced labor, and physical abuse.
- The scams, often involving cryptocurrency and foreign exchange fraud, have targeted victims worldwide, including Americans.
- Cambodia's foreign ministry condemned the sanctions as politically motivated and a violation of international law.