Cambodian police have detained seven Chinese nationals after uncovering a large cache of suspected narcotics, firearms and ammunition in waters off Preah Sihanouk province, according to the National Police.

Coastal operation near Koh Russei

The operation was carried out on September 23 near Koh Russei, in the province's maritime zone. It was led by Touch Poleak, director of the Water Border Police Department, alongside the Maritime Crime Suppression Unit and the 240th Water Border Police Battalion.

Police said the action came after several days of investigation. Officers first stopped a speedboat carrying two Chinese men, which then led to the interception of two vehicles and the detention of five additional suspects.

Drugs, weapons and ammunition recovered

Authorities recovered 42 sacks of a white crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine, weighing about 840kg. The haul also included 10 long guns, 39 handguns, 108 magazines and 7,937 rounds of ammunition, as well as three motorcycles.

The suspects and seized items were sent to the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Police Commissariat for further legal processing.

Police did not provide details about where the suspected drugs and weapons came from or where they were intended to go.