Hun To, a cousin of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, acknowledged owning a 30% stake in Huione Pay, a digital payments platform accused of being involved in scams and money laundering.
In a statement made on Wednesday, Hun To denied managing the platform's operations and claimed he never profited from it.
His comments come after the former chairman of Huione Group was extradited to China, facing serious allegations related to a large-scale gambling and fraud syndicate.
Background on Huione Pay
The US government has designated Huione Group as a primary money-laundering concern, accusing it of laundering billions for criminal organizations involved in internet fraud.
Protests have erupted in Cambodia as many users demand access to their accounts on H-Pay, which have been frozen since December due to the company's liquidation.
I doubt there is any chance of him ever facing criminal investigation in Cambodia itself, especially while his uncle Hun Sen is still alive.
Lindsey Kennedy, Organized Crime Expert
Kennedy highlighted Hun To's past involvement with various companies linked to serious crimes, suggesting little chance of accountability.
Huione Pay's former chairman, Li Xiong, held a 62% stake in the firm and was implicated in similar illegal activities.
Cambodia's Scam Industry
Cambodia has become a hotspot for transnational scams, with criminals reportedly stealing billions from global victims.
The Cambodian government has recently taken action against foreign nationals involved in such scams, following international pressure.
However, experts argue that high-ranking officials remain untouchable amidst ongoing investigations.
Those truly responsible are not facing any consequences.
Lindsey Kennedy