Background
The General Department of Immigration (GDI) operates Cambodia’s border control and removal procedures, coordinating deportations of foreign nationals who violate immigration or criminal statutes under the Interior Ministry’s authority. GDI’s operational remit includes processing removals at international airport checkpoints and coordinating repatriation logistics with diplomatic missions.
On 17–18 May 2026, GDI coordinated the deportation of 319 Chinese nationals who were identified as linked to online scam operations. The removals were executed through international airport checkpoints, with 166 people (including three women) processed at Phnom Penh International Airport and 153 people (including four women) processed at Siem Reap International Airport.
Key Developments
The deportation action followed high-level direction from senior Interior Ministry leadership and was carried out in cooperation with the Chinese embassy and airport police units. Authorities reported the operation targeted individuals alleged to be involved in online fraud and in some cases illegally residing or working in Cambodia.
Institutional Role
Immigration checkpoints at international airports serve as primary points for executing removals and repatriations when foreign nationals are identified for deportation. The General Department of Immigration coordinates across law-enforcement units and diplomatic channels to arrange aircraft transfers and travel documents for returned individuals.
Operational Implications
The operation illustrates the use of immigration removal powers as a tool to address technology-facilitated criminal activity while involving bilateral engagement with origin-country missions. For enforcement monitoring, the event provides a concrete data point on how airport border-control procedures are used to repatriate persons linked to online scams.
Sources: GDI public statement via official social channels and the General Department of Immigration website: www.immigration.gov.kh
