15 Chinese and Burmese Nationals Arrested Attempting to Cross Cambodian Border Illegally
Cambodia – November 20, 2025 — Fifteen foreign nationals, including 5 Chinese and 10 Burmese citizens, were arrested by Cambodia’s Border Protection Police in Malai District, Banteay Meanchey Province, for attempting to illegally cross the border from Thailand into Cambodia. The incident occurred at 21:10 on November 20, 2025, at a checkpoint near Thmey Village, Malai Commune.
According to Cambodian authorities, the operation was carried out under the direct orders of Major General Sith Loh, the Provincial Police Commissioner for Banteay Meanchey, and under the leadership of Colonel Suong Sao, Commander of the Land Border Police Battalion No. 815. The border post at Malai Bridge, which consists of five personnel, was led by Brigadier General Ly Xiangyang, the Deputy Commander of the post.
The Arrests
The suspects, 9 of whom were attempting to enter Cambodia to seek work, were caught in a coordinated operation involving local authorities and military personnel from the 51st Infantry Brigade and Malai Sub-Division. The arrested group consisted of 5 Chinese males, 4 Burmese females, and 5 Burmese males, aged between 20 and 40. Among them were two women from each nationality, making this a rare case of mixed-gender border crossers attempting to enter Cambodia illegally.
The illegal migrants were reportedly traveling without proper documentation and had been planning to enter the Cambodian labor market in search of employment opportunities. Authorities did not specify the exact reasons for their crossing but emphasized that illegal border crossings are a significant concern for both Cambodian and Thai authorities.
Border Security Efforts
The successful arrest highlights Cambodia’s increasing efforts to strengthen border security, particularly in regions like Banteay Meanchey, where illegal immigration and trafficking are often reported. The Cambodian government has placed heightened security measures along its borders, especially at key crossings like the Malai Bridge, which serves as a main entry point from Thailand.
Brigadier General Ly Xiangyang, who led the operation, emphasized the critical role of coordination between local police and military units to prevent illegal immigration and ensure national security. He also pointed out that similar arrests have been made in the region, which underscores the ongoing challenge posed by human trafficking and unauthorized migration.
Handing Over the Suspects
After the arrests, the 15 detained individuals were handed over to the Malai District Police Inspectorate for further investigation and legal proceedings. The police will conduct a full review of the case, which may involve charges related to illegal entry and labor trafficking. Authorities have made it clear that any foreigners caught entering Cambodia without proper authorization will face strict penalties in accordance with national law.
Growing Concern Over Border Security
The incident comes amid growing concerns about the increasing number of illegal crossings between Cambodia and its neighbors, especially in Banteay Meanchey Province. Border security forces have been actively working with Thai and Vietnamese counterparts to curb human trafficking, illegal trade, and other cross-border crimes. While Cambodia has seen a reduction in major border security incidents in recent years, cases like this one highlight the ongoing need for vigilance in controlling migration flows.
Cambodia’s border police continue to work closely with international agencies and neighboring countries to maintain security and address the root causes of illegal immigration, such as poverty and limited job opportunities in rural areas. In particular, both Thai and Cambodian officials have called for better coordination to address the growing trend of illegal workers crossing borders without proper documentation.
