July 16, 2026
PHNOM PENH – In a massive nationwide sweep against cybercrime, Cambodian authorities deported more than 45,000 foreigners during the first half of the year. While 16,000 were detained at online scam sites, the majority reportedly fled scam centres and were later picked up by authorities.
Sok Veasna, director-general of the General Department of Immigration (GDI), told Ministry of Interior TV that an active campaign to eradicate online scams has been underway throughout the first six months of 2026 remains ongoing.
He noted that many suspects fled from operations that were dismantled, but remain in the Kingdom, often continuing their illegal activities.
He explained that following directives from the government, authorities initially offered a window for any individuals who were involved to depart voluntarily. However, those who refused to leave and have since been detained are facing the full force of the law. Once deported under these circumstances, they are permanently barred from re-entering Cambodia.
“In the first six months of the year, not including those who left voluntarily, we have deported more than 45,000 individuals,” he said.
“Of this number, over 16,000 were directly involved in online scams — in operations that were busted by the National Police and other units across Cambodia,” he added
He highlighted the staggering number of deportations, noting that the figure of 45,000 exceeds the total number of foreigners deported over the entire previous decade.
The director-general explained some of the ongoing challenges faced by authorities during such large-scale operations, including a lack of documentation for many of the individuals slated for deportation.
Another significant hurdle remains the illegal entry of foreigners through informal border crossings.
He also noted that some accommodation providers have failed to comply with a law that calls for the mandatory reporting of foreign guests to the authorities.