Immigration police detained nine foreigners last night after receiving a tip from local authorities in Meanchey district’s Boeng Tompun commune that the group was making fake passports and visas.
“We have arrested nine foreigners that have been using improper passports and visas,” said General Sok Phal, director of the immigration department at the Ministry of Interior.
“Right now they are being held at the immigration police station,” he added. “They were making fake passports and visas for illegally living in Cambodia.”
Mr. Phal refused to discuss the case further and declined to name the men or give their nationalities.
A man being brought into a police van outside a Boeng Tompun commune residence and business last night said police had not provided any reason for his detention.
“I don’t know what’s going on, they are just locking my place,” he said before being driven away.
The man’s house has two business signs outside. One is for Easy Way Business Ventures, an import and export consultation company, and the other is for Big Do Records, an entertainment company.
A man who answered the phone number listed for both companies last night identified himself as the owner and denied the allegations made by authorities.
“I don’t make fake visas,” he said. “They came to my house and started moving things around but found nothing. If they find anything in my place, bring it out. If they have proof, show it. I’m here legally.”
The man, who did not provide his name or nationality before the phone connection was lost, said he was being harassed simply because he is a foreigner.
(Additional reporting by Alex Consiglio)
