Illustration: Luo Xuan/GT

The Chinese Embassy in Cambodia issued a notice on Wednesday on its website, reminding Chinese citizens in this Southeast Asian country to stay away from online gambling syndicates. 

Recently, a number of Chinese citizens were illegally detained and held for ransom after being lured into Cambodia by con artist organizations, believing false advertisements of "high salaries" for job vacancies. 

Due to the prompt response from the victims' families and coordination with the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, law enforcement departments in China and Cambodia have taken swift action and successfully rescued the victims. 

The Chinese Embassy in Cambodia once again reminded Chinese citizens to come to Cambodia through formal channels and to avoid falling for conmen that promise overnight gains. 

The embassy also reminded Chinese citizens to report to the Chinese and Cambodian police as soon as possible if they are in danger or their personal freedom is restricted. When filing a report or making an emergency call, the embassy specified, it is important to provide as much information as possible, so that a timely rescue can be organized. 

Chinese authorities have been joining hands with Southeast Asian countries to strengthen joint law enforcement and crackdown on criminal activities like cross-border internet fraud and illegal online gambling for many years, according to media reports. Due to the crackdown on fraud, online gambling and other illegal industries in China, many criminals have turned to Southeast Asian countries with relatively loose regulations. 

The Chinese government has always insisted on the importance to comply with the laws and regulations of local countries when it comes to Chinese companies or individuals going abroad for business or work. China does not support any illegal business involvement by companies or individuals in foreign countries. 

In addition to Cambodia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Laos and other Southeast Asian countries have been working closely with the Chinese government to crack down on overseas internet crimes.  

Global Times