Background
The General Department of Immigration (GDI) is responsible for border control, immigration screening, and the implementation of removal procedures at Cambodia’s international crossing points, including the Poipet land border in Banteay Meanchey province. On 21 August 2026, the General Department of Immigration carried out the removal of 44 Thai nationals from Cambodian territory via the Poipet international border post.
GDI reporting states that the removals followed investigative findings of unauthorized entry, unlawful employment, unlawful possession or use of narcotics, and participation in online scam operations. Authorities cited involvement in online scams, illegal entry, unauthorized employment, and illegal possession or use of narcotics as grounds for the removals.
Key Developments
GDI announced that 44 Thai nationals, including 16 women, were identified by the Investigation Department and processed for removal at the Poipet international border post. The action was carried out under instructions from senior Interior Ministry leadership and in alignment with public directives emphasizing that Cambodia should not be used as a base for criminal online operations.
Institutional Role
The Investigation Department of the General Department of Immigration conducted inquiries and implemented formal removal procedures under the direction of the GDI Director General. Border posts such as Poipet serve as operational nodes for executing immigration enforcement, identity checks, and cross-border repatriation when removals are authorized.
Enforcement Actions
Authorities reported that the removal operation targeted individuals associated with online scam networks and other violations of immigration and criminal law. GDI statements indicated that the operation also included measures to assist and repatriate victims who had been defrauded, allowing them to return to their countries of origin.
Source
Official announcement: General Department of Immigration (GDI) social media statement, 21–22 August 2026. Original source: GDI Facebook post.
