Background
The General Department of Immigration (GDI) is the national agency responsible for managing border control, immigration checkpoints, and the formal deportation of foreign nationals under the Ministry of Interior. GDI maintains operational control of international airport immigration checkpoints, including Phnom Penh Techo International Airport and Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and coordinates charter deportations when required.
Deportations for illegal residence, unauthorized work, and criminal involvement are processed through GDI procedures and typically involve coordination with investigative units and foreign diplomatic missions. Cambodia’s immigration system uses airport police checkpoints, repatriation flights, and inter-agency cooperation to effect removals while arranging diplomatic notifications and return logistics.
Key Developments
On the night of 8–9 May 2026, GDI executed a coordinated deportation operation that removed a total of 319 Chinese nationals suspected of involvement in online fraud schemes, illegal stay, or unauthorized work; the group included one woman. GDI reported that 166 individuals were processed for removal via Phnom Penh (Techo) international airport police checkpoints and 153 individuals were processed via Siem Reap (Angkor) international airport police checkpoints, with departures carried out on special flights.
Institutional Role
GDI implemented the operation after directives from senior government leaders and under guidance from the Ministry of Interior; the agency’s Investigation Department conducted inquiries and coordinated operational steps. GDI also worked with the Chinese diplomatic mission to arrange repatriation logistics and to exchange information on the persons removed.
Operational Implications
The action removed foreign nationals alleged to be participating in technology-enabled fraud and addressed cases of unlawful residence and employment through administrative deportation procedures. GDI described accompanying measures to identify persons allegedly coerced or deceived into participation and to facilitate their return to countries of origin.
