Phnom Penh: Touch Sokha, deputy spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, confirmed that former tycoon Heng Sithy was arrested in Russia approximately three days ago. Prior to his arrest, Heng Sithy, who had recently traveled abroad, publicly criticized key leaders of the Royal Cambodian government, alleging that Cambodia is plagued by fraudulent crimes. His statements have been reported as severely damaging to the country's reputation.

Teams from the Cambodian and Russian embassies are currently coordinating efforts to repatriate Heng Sithy back to Cambodia.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a letter to Cambodian embassies worldwide, informing them of the cancellation of Heng Sithy’s passport. Additionally, Cambodian authorities have collaborated with Interpol to place Heng Sithy on its Red Notice list, which calls for his arrest and extradition.