Cambodian authorities have deported 1,175 foreign nationals in a single week, underscoring a sweeping crackdown on crime and illegal activities across the country.

Between 12 and 19 April, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) confirmed the removal of individuals from 28 different nationalities, including 167 women. Those deported came from countries as varied as Rwanda, Cameroon, Myanmar, Vietnam, India, Sri Lanka, China, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Indonesia, Uganda, Kenya, Pakistan, Malaysia, the UK, Poland, Taiwan and Canada.

Officials said many of the deportees were linked to online scam operations. Of these, 327 Chinese nationals were expelled via Techo International Airport, while 226 Vietnamese nationals were deported through the Chakrey International Border Checkpoint.

Others faced charges ranging from illegal border crossings and document forgery to overstaying visas, extortion, fake visa QR codes, illegal employment and other offences.

The GDI stressed that the mass deportations are part of strict law enforcement measures aimed at tackling technology‑related crimes, which have proliferated in recent years.

“These actions are part of a broader crackdown on crime, particularly online scams,” authorities said.

Officials also highlighted that the campaign is not limited to arrests and deportations. Efforts include rescuing victims who were deceived into participating in illegal operations, ensuring they regain their freedom and can safely return home.

The scale of the deportations reflects Cambodia’s growing determination to confront transnational crime networks operating within its borders. With scams and fraud schemes increasingly tied to international syndicates, the government says its crackdown is designed both to protect the public and to reinforce confidence in the country’s immigration system.

-2026-04-21

How about those who run the scam centres? I know some have been returned to China, but that's just a token gesture. Lots more to be done on this I think!

Also (I think) due to Thai pressure related to border scams, gambling dens ... ?

On 4/22/2026 at 10:05 AM, Watawattana said:

How about those who run the scam centres? I know some have been returned to China, but that's just a token gesture. Lots more to be done on this I think!

Yup - here's why progress is slow - https://aseannow.com/topic/1392784-cambodia-scams-worth-40-of-gdp-report-says/