Lao police have deported 280 Chinese nationals to China for their involvement in a large-scale online fraud operation based in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Tonpheung district, Bokeo Province. This SEZ, known for its prominent casino and popularity among Chinese tourists and businessmen, was the center of these illegal activities.

During the crackdown, authorities confiscated 1,345 mobile phones and 458 desktop computers used in the fraudulent schemes. The suspects were handed over at the Boten-Bohan border crossing in Luang Namtha Province on June 23, under the supervision of Soutchai Inthongxay, Deputy Director of the Immigration and Foreigners Management Police Department, and his Chinese counterpart.

This operation was part of a collaborative effort involving security forces in the Golden Triangle SEZ, local police officials, and Chinese police. In a similar joint operation in November 2023, 464 Chinese suspects were arrested across the same areas, with authorities seizing five cars, numerous cell phones, and 16 sets of computers.

Additionally, in September 2023, Lao police deported 164 Chinese nationals accused of defrauding Chinese citizens through cross-border telecommunications systems. These individuals were arrested in various locations across Laos, including Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Savannakhet Province, and the Golden Triangle SEZ.