Full Breakdown
Singaporean Men Charged in Cambodia-Based Scam Syndicate
11/17/2025, 12:34:44 PM
Arrest and Charges
On November 17, 2025, two Singaporean men, Wayne Soh You Chen, 27, and Brian Sie Eng Fa, 32, were charged under the Organised Crime Act after being deported from Cambodia and Thailand. They are accused of facilitating serious offences related to a Cambodia-based organized criminal group, which allegedly ran government official impersonation scams targeting victims in Singapore. The group is believed to have caused losses of at least S$41 million (approximately US$31.6 million) across 438 reported cases. Both men were arrested upon their arrival in Singapore on November 16, following their capture by foreign police in Phnom Penh and Khon Kaen, respectively.
Background of the Criminal Group
The syndicate, reportedly led by fugitive Singaporean Ng Wei Liang, operated from a compound in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Ng is alleged to have recruited several family members into the scheme, including his older brother and cousin. The group was disrupted during a joint operation by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Cambodian National Police (CNP) on September 9, 2025. Following this operation, the SPF issued prohibition of disposal orders and seized assets linked to the criminal organization.
Ongoing Investigations and Remaining Suspects
Soh and Sie are among 34 suspects wanted by the SPF for their involvement in the syndicate. The remaining suspects include several Singaporean and Malaysian nationals, with Ng Wei Liang still at large. The SPF has urged the public to provide information regarding the whereabouts of these suspects, emphasizing that all information will be kept confidential.
Official Statements & Responses
The SPF expressed gratitude for the collaboration and intelligence sharing with the CNP and the Royal Thai Police (RTP) that led to the arrests. They reiterated their commitment to working closely with international law enforcement partners to combat scams. The police stated, “The SPF would like to extend our appreciation to RTP and CNP for their strong support, and will continue to work closely with our foreign law enforcement partners to apprehend persons who perpetrate scams.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the authorities have made significant strides in addressing organized crime, some critics argue that more preventive measures should be implemented to protect potential victims from such scams. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of existing laws and the need for enhanced public awareness campaigns regarding impersonation scams.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Both men are among the 34 suspects wanted by the SPF for being part of an organised criminal group,” — Singapore Police Force
- “The arrests follow close collaboration and intelligence sharing between the SPF, RTP, and CNP.” — Singapore Police Force
What's Next
The cases of Wayne Soh You Chen and Brian Sie Eng Fa have been adjourned to November 24, 2025, for further proceedings. The SPF continues to pursue the remaining suspects linked to the syndicate, with ongoing investigations expected to yield further developments.
