Background
The General Department of Immigration carried out coordinated deportation operations targeting foreign nationals alleged to be involved in online fraud and related immigration violations. The operation took place across major international airports and involved liaison with foreign diplomatic missions and airport police units.
The General Department of Immigration carried out deportations of 648 Chinese nationals from Cambodia between 18 and 20 May 2026. Authorities identified the deported individuals as linked to online fraud networks and cases of illegal stay or unauthorized employment.
Key Developments
Between 18 and 20 May 2026, authorities removed a total of 648 Chinese nationals; the group included 15 women. Of those removed, 330 people (including seven women) were processed at the Phnom Penh international airport police post, while 318 people (including eight women) were processed at the Siem Reap–Angkor international airport police post. Some departures were conducted via special flights arranged for repatriation.
Institutional Role
The General Department of Immigration served as the operational lead for processing and removal, working in coordination with the Ministry of Interior’s investigative units and foreign diplomatic channels. Senior government leadership provided high-level directives that guided enforcement priorities and inter-agency coordination during the operation.
Enforcement Actions
Authorities characterized the removals as enforcement of applicable immigration measures against individuals connected to online scams, illegal residence, or unauthorized employment. The operation also included measures aimed at assisting and repatriating people who had been coerced into scam-related activities, with authorities facilitating their return to their countries of origin.
