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The Department of Foreigner Management within the Ministry of Public Security of the Lao PDR has handed over 485 Chinese nationals to Chinese authorities to face prosecution for their involvement in large-scale telecom fraud and illegal gambling operations.
The handover took place on 13 May 2026 at the Boten International Checkpoint in Luang Namtha Province. The group, which includes 30 women, is accused of operating "call centre gangs," providing online gambling services, and violating immigration laws by working illegally in the Lao PDR.
The deportees were part of a wider group of 605 foreign nationals detained during a coordinated raid early this month, 6 May. Lao security forces targeted seven specific locations—including resorts, hotels, and guesthouses—across Savannakhet Province.
While the majority of those detained were Chinese, the operation uncovered a diverse criminal network involving citizens from Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and the Republic of Korea.
A significant amount of equipment used to facilitate cybercrime was also seized during the raids.
Legal Cooperation and Treaties
The deportation was carried out in accordance with the Law on Entry-Exit and Foreigner Management and a 2020 bilateral agreement establishing the Lao-China Police Cooperation Centre. Officials confirmed that this move aligns with existing treaties regarding the exchange of information and the repatriation of suspects to face justice in their home countries.
The Lao government has reaffirmed its commitment to strictly suppressing telecommunications crime and continues to work alongside neighbouring countries and international organisations to dismantle these syndicates.
Official Advice to the Public
The Ministry of Public Security has issued a stern warning to citizens and business owners to remain vigilant against evolving cyber-scams.
KPL
