Phnom penh: A South Korean national, previously listed on Interpol's Red Notice for alleged involvement in a Cambodia-based romance scam ring, has died in Cambodia, police officials confirmed. The man, in his 50s, passed away at a local hospital in June, with his death attributed to heart-related complications. However, the exact circumstances surrounding his heart disease remain undetermined.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the deceased was identified as a key recruiter for a criminal organization under investigation by the Ulsan Metropolitan Police Agency. This organization is suspected of orchestrating a large-scale romance scam, defrauding victims of approximately 12 billion won, equivalent to US$8.4 million.
Following notification of his death by diplomatic authorities, police officially closed the case against the suspect last month. Despite this development, investigations into the romance scam ring continue. Authorities have issued Red Notices and arrest warrants for 28 other individuals involved in the fraudulent scheme.