Phnom Penh — Cambodian authorities have deported 312 Chinese nationals suspected of involvement in online scam operations, the Ministry of Interior’s General Department of Immigration said on Sunday.
The deportations were carried out on Feb. 8 in coordination with the Chinese embassy, according to an official statement. All 312 individuals, who were men, were flown out of the country on a special flight from Techo International Airport.
The operation followed directives from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha and senior Interior Ministry officials, with Immigration Director General Lieutenant General Sok Veasna overseeing the process, the statement said.
Authorities described the deportations as part of the Royal Government of Cambodia’s broader efforts to enforce immigration and criminal laws, particularly in relation to technology-related crimes.
Cambodia has intensified its campaign against online fraud networks, which have drawn increasing regional and international concern. The government said its approach includes pursuing those responsible for organising scam operations, while also identifying and assisting individuals who may have been coerced or deceived into participating.
“The Royal Government remains resolute in its mission to eliminate online fraud operations,” the statement said, adding that authorities are working to help alleged victims return safely to their home countries.
Online scam operations, often targeting victims overseas, have been a growing challenge across parts of Southeast Asia, prompting closer cooperation between regional governments and law enforcement agencies.
FAQs
Cambodian authorities said the individuals were suspected of involvement in online scam operations. The deportations were part of the government’s enforcement of immigration and criminal laws targeting technology-related crime.
The deportations took place on Feb. 8, according to the General Department of Immigration at the Ministry of Interior.
The 312 Chinese nationals were flown out of Cambodia on a special flight via Techo International Airport, in coordination with the Chinese embassy.
The operation was conducted under directives from Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sar Sokha, with implementation overseen by Immigration Director General Lt. Gen. Sok Veasna.
Yes. Authorities said the deportations are part of a broader campaign to dismantle online fraud networks and strengthen cooperation with international partners.
The government said it is also working to identify and assist individuals who were allegedly coerced or deceived into participating in scam activities, helping them return safely to their home countries.
Online scam operations have expanded across parts of Southeast Asia, often targeting victims overseas, prompting governments in the region to increase law enforcement cooperation.