China Says Li Xiong Deportation Reflects Strong Cambodia Cooperation

China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Mao Ning

BEIJING, April 2, 2026 — China’s Foreign Ministry said the deportation of a Chinese suspect linked to online scam operations from Cambodia was the result of close law enforcement cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking at a press briefing, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the transfer of Li Xiong — identified as the head of Huione Group and linked to a criminal network — marked a significant outcome of joint efforts with Cambodian authorities to combat online fraud and illegal gambling.

“The fight against online gambling and telecom fraud is a shared responsibility of the international community,” Mao said, noting that China has actively worked with Cambodia and other countries to crack down on cross-border cybercrime, achieving “notable results.”

Li Xiong, who is also reported to have ties to Chen Zhi, was recently deported from Cambodia to China following a joint investigation targeting transnational scam networks.

Mao added that Beijing will continue to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with neighboring countries, including Cambodia, to intensify efforts against online fraud and protect public safety and property.

The case highlights deepening regional coordination to tackle cyber-enabled crimes, which have increasingly affected multiple countries across Southeast Asia.