Background
The General Department of Immigration implemented removal procedures to expel 318 Chinese nationals alleged to be involved in online scam operations. Authorities carried out departures through the international airport police checkpoints at Phnom Penh Techo and Siem Reap Angkor and by special flights.
The operation was conducted following direction from senior government leadership and involved coordination with foreign diplomatic channels and internal investigative units. The department also stated that part of the action included assistance to victims and arrangements for their voluntary return to their country of origin.
Key Developments
– Date: Night of 9–10 May 2026, as reported by the General Department of Immigration (GDI).
– Total removed: 318 foreign nationals, including one female.
– Removal channels: 165 individuals departed via the Phnom Penh international airport police checkpoint (Techo) and 153 via the Siem Reap Angkor international airport police checkpoint; some departures were conducted on special aircraft.
– Allegations: The group was described by authorities as linked to online scam activities and related unlawful residence or work actions.
– Coordination: GDI reported cooperation with the relevant foreign diplomatic mission and internal investigative units in carrying out the removals.
Operational Implications
The deportation operation involved airport police checkpoints and dedicated transport arrangements, reflecting the logistical mechanisms used for large-scale repatriation actions. Such operations require coordination among immigration authorities, airport security units, investigative divisions, and foreign diplomatic offices to execute removals and process returnees.
Official Source
Primary source: General Department of Immigration (GDI) social media post dated 10 May 2026. Source link: https://www.facebook.com/GDIOfficial/posts/pfbid0253h7mn3b4PtG5Rxj4enRwi67z66jEF8jqutQPyLNTg4WT669KCVHcMnBSDh174u7l
