Cambodia says Chen Zhi deportation followed law and legal cooperation framework

PHNOM PENH, Jan 26, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s foreign ministry said Monday the deportation of Chen Zhi to China was carried out in line with national law and under the framework of mutual legal assistance between the two countries.

In a statement, the ministry said Chen was sent back to China on January 7 after authorities determined his Cambodian nationality had been obtained irregularly.

His citizenship was revoked under the amended Law on Nationality of September 2025 and a related sub-decree issued in December, which allow for the withdrawal of naturalized nationality if acquired through forgery or false information.

The ministry stressed the deportation was a sovereign legal action and not arbitrary, saying it reflected Cambodia’s adherence to the rule of law. It added the case demonstrated the country’s system of checks and balances, with procedures carried out transparently and in line with domestic legislation and international obligations.

Officials described the transfer as part of formal judicial cooperation with China, underscoring Cambodia’s commitment to working with partners against transnational crime and in support of peace, stability and development.