China repatriates almost 700 suspects involved in gambling from Cambodia
The repatriation of 135 individuals involved in illegal cross-border gambling and fraud from Cambodia to China marked the conclusion of a joint operation between Chinese and Cambodian authorities.
Global Times reported that the suspects were part of a larger group totalling 680 individuals apprehended by Cambodian police. They were escorted back to Tianhe International Airport in Wuhan, Hubei Province, via two chartered planes on Sunday.
This development followed the earlier extradition of 130 Chinese nationals suspected of engaging in the same offences. The coordinated action underscores the commitment of both countries to combat cross-border criminal activities through cooperation between law enforcement agencies. Last March, police in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, carried out crackdowns on illegal online gambling operations, resulting in the detention of nearly 200 foreigners.
Hubei organizes repatriation efforts
Hubei public security officials coordinated multiple charter flights to repatriate the suspects, with the Ministry of Public Security tasking the Hubei police with the investigation and handling of the individuals upon their return to China. The repatriation comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities such as cross-border gambling and telecommunications fraud.
Combating transnational crimes
Speaking to media, Wang Xiaowei, an associate professor at the People’s Public Security University of China, highlighted the challenges posed by crime gangs operating overseas, emphasizing the importance of international law enforcement cooperation in investigating, gathering evidence, and apprehending suspects. Cross-border telecom fraud presents complex challenges due to its extensive criminal networks spanning multiple countries.
Continued vigilance and awareness encouraged
Chinese public security authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining pressure on illegal activities and protecting the public from the dangers of cross-border gambling and telecom fraud. They urged the public to remain vigilant, refrain from engaging in illegal gambling activities abroad or online, and safeguard their legitimate rights and interests against emerging methods of criminal activity.
Upcoming SiGMA event: BIS SiGMA Americas 2024, find all the details here.
