Background
The General Department of Immigration executed the removal of 121 Chinese nationals from Cambodia on 1 September 2026. Authorities identified the group as involved in illegal border crossings, unauthorized residence or employment, and online-scam operations.
The removals were carried out by special flight through the Phnom Penh (Techo) International Airport immigration police checkpoint and implemented under the operational authority of immigration investigative units. Senior leadership in the Ministry of Interior has framed removals of foreign suspects as part of an enforcement posture against technology-enabled fraud and related cross-border criminality.
Key Developments
On 1 September 2026, immigration investigators completed screening and deportation procedures for a group of 121 Chinese nationals, including two women, who were found to lack valid travel documents and to be connected to online-scam operations. The General Department of Immigration reported that the operation followed recommendations from senior interior ministry leadership and cited national directives ordering the removal of criminals who use Cambodian territory to commit fraud.
Enforcement Actions
Investigation teams conducted identity and status checks, documented violations of immigration law, and processed the group for removal under established deportation procedures. Authorities also reported providing assistance to individuals identified as victims of fraud as part of parallel protective measures during the enforcement operation.
Operational Implications
The operation demonstrates an ongoing enforcement emphasis linking immigration control and anti-cybercrime priorities at international entry points. For immigration and border-control practitioners, the case highlights the use of targeted removals and special flights as a mechanism for returning non-citizens found to be engaged in illegal activity.
Source
General Department of Immigration (GDI) public statement and social media posts, 1 September 2026; official channels include GDI Facebook, TikTok, Telegram, and www.immigration.gov.kh.
