Oudomxay Authorities Detain 50 Foreign Nationals During Immigration Crackdown

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Authorities in Oudomxay province have detained 50 foreign nationals during an inspection operation targeting illegal immigration activities in Xay district on 13 May. 

According to provincial police, officers from the provincial security and police departments conducted inspections at two hotels in Vang Hai village, where they found dozens of foreigners allegedly hiding without proper immigration documents.

Authorities said the group included 46 Chinese nationals and 4 Myanmar nationals. Officials also confiscated 53 mobile phones during the operation.

Preliminary investigations found that many of the detainees did not possess valid passports or clear immigration documents. Authorities said investigations are ongoing and legal proceedings will follow in accordance with Lao law. 

The crackdown comes amid Laos’ broader efforts to combat transnational cybercrime and illegal immigration activities linked to online scam networks operating across the region.

Separately on 13 May, Lao authorities, in coordination with Chinese police through the Lao-China Police Cooperation Center, transferred 485 Chinese nationals from Laos back to China following investigations into cybercrime and illegal migration. 

Authorities said the group was also linked to telecom fraud, online gambling operations, and unauthorized business activities in Laos. 

Police urged hotel owners, landlords, and businesses to report suspicious activities and comply with regulations concerning foreign residents and guests staying in Laos. 

Lao authorities said investigations are continuing as Laos cooperates with neighboring countries and international organizations to address cybercrime and illegal migration. 

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