Background
On 14 March 2026, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) deported a group of Chinese nationals from the Kingdom of Cambodia. The operation was conducted under the high-level recommendation of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and under the direction of the GDI Director General. The deportees were linked to online scam activities and violations of immigration and labor rules in Cambodia.
Scope of Application
The measures applied to a total of 335 Chinese nationals, including four women. According to the announcement, the individuals were associated with online scam operations, overstaying or residing illegally, and working without legal authorization in Cambodia. The enforcement action was carried out at the police post of Techo International Airport, using a special flight to return them to China.
Key Provisions or Decisions
- GDI instructed the Department of Investigation and Procedures to cooperate with the Embassy of China in Cambodia to organize the deportation.
- A total of 335 Chinese nationals were deported via special aircraft from Techo International Airport.
- The stated grounds for deportation included involvement in online scams, illegal stay, and illegal employment.
- The action was presented as part of the Royal Government of Cambodia’s strict legal measures to clean up and eliminate technology-based crime.
- The announcement emphasized that there would be no exceptions for organizers behind such criminal activities and highlighted efforts to rescue victims deceived into working in scam operations.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The deportation underscores strict enforcement of Cambodia’s immigration and related legal provisions against foreign nationals involved in online scam activities and unauthorized work. Foreign businesses and workers operating in Cambodia may need to ensure full compliance with immigration, residence, and employment regulations, particularly in sectors involving technology and online services. The cooperation with the Chinese Embassy also indicates ongoing bilateral coordination in handling transnational crime and repatriation of foreign nationals.
Official Source
The information is based on an official announcement from the General Department of Immigration, Ministry of Interior, published on its verified Facebook page.
Related Developments
This topic is part of ongoing policy and enforcement developments related to cybercrime and online fraud in Cambodia, including scam investigations, regulatory responses, and cross-border cooperation.
