Background
The General Department of Immigration (GDI) is the agency responsible for immigration control and the administrative removal of foreign nationals who violate Cambodian immigration or criminal laws.
Between 18 and 20 May 2026, GDI investigators coordinated with foreign diplomatic officials and used special aircraft to deport 648 Chinese nationals, including 15 women, who were identified as linked to online scam operations and unlawful stay or work in Cambodia.
Key Developments
GDI reported that the deportation operation was conducted over a three-day period following recommendations from senior Interior Ministry leadership and operational procedures led by the department’s investigation unit. The agency stated the removals targeted individuals allegedly involved in technology-enabled fraud and related immigration violations; transfers were executed via special flights and undertaken in coordination with the Chinese diplomatic mission.
Institutional Role
The Investigation Department within GDI is tasked with identifying foreign nationals suspected of immigration offenses and coordinating administrative removal processes. Diplomatic engagement with the sending country is used to confirm identities and arrange repatriation logistics for large-scale removals.
Operational Implications
Large-scale repatriation operations require cross-agency coordination, diplomatic notification, and transport arrangements such as charter or special flights. For migration governance, the case underscores the operational role of immigration investigators in responding to transnational, technology-enabled criminal activity while managing administrative removal procedures.
