Background
The General Department of Immigration (GDI) is responsible for processing nationality verification and deportation for foreign nationals who are assessed to be in breach of Cambodia’s immigration rules or engaged in criminal activity. The Investigation Department of the GDI executes procedures for removal in coordination with other interior ministry units and foreign diplomatic missions when repatriation is required.
On the night of 6–7 May 2026, GDI carried out deportation operations that removed 506 Chinese nationals linked to alleged online scam activities and cases of unlawful stay or work; the operation included three women and was conducted using a special flight from the international airport with cooperation from the Chinese embassy. Deportation operations are routed through airport police checkpoints and use specially designated flights when coordinated repatriation is arranged with the receiving state.
Key Developments
The Investigation Department implemented the removal after senior interior ministry officials recommended further action and cooperation with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Reported grounds for removal combined allegations of participation in online scam networks and violations related to unauthorized residency or employment.
Institutional Role
The GDI enforces immigration controls and manages case processing for foreign nationals identified in criminal or administrative cases, relying on interdepartmental coordination within the Ministry of Interior. Diplomatic engagement with the destination country is used to confirm identity and secure acceptance for repatriation when required.
Operational Implications
Operational procedures for removals in this case included investigation, coordination with a foreign diplomatic mission, and transport via a special aircraft at the airport police post. Agencies involved typically document identity, determine legal grounds for removal, and schedule coordinated flights to return individuals to their country of nationality.
