Cambodia: Alleged Cyber Scam Boss Extradited to China

Cambodia’s authorities have announced the deportation of Li Xiong, a suspect in a cybercrime operation, following a request from Chinese officials. This marks the second instance of a key figure from the alleged scam network being sent to China, after a similar extradition occurred in January.

According to state media CCTV, Li Xiong, who previously led the Huione Group under Prince Group, is being investigated for multiple offenses. The report identifies him as a central figure within Chen Zhi’s criminal organization. The Cambodian government confirmed the transfer in a statement, emphasizing its role in international crime efforts.

Chen Zhi, the founder of Prince Group—one of Cambodia’s largest business empires—was extradited to China earlier this year. His alleged activities include overseeing labor camps that reportedly exploit workers across the country. Chen had advised both current Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father, former leader Hun Sen, according to official records.

Cambodian citizenship was revoked from both Chen and Li, signaling the government’s resolve against their involvement in illicit activities. In 2025, the United States accused Prince Group of acting as a cover for a major transnational criminal network in Asia. Rights organizations highlight that Cambodia hosts numerous scam centers, employing tens of thousands in online fraud schemes.

“Combating online gambling and telecoms fraud is the shared responsibility of the global community,” stated a Chinese Foreign Ministry representative. Hun Manet, however, denied claims of government complicity in February, asserting that the administration was unaware of Chen’s leadership role in the criminal network.