Chinese Action Stops Big Cambodian Scam Network

China has taken a major step against an international money‑laundering ring that operated out of Cambodia. The chief, Li Xiong, a Chinese national who once led Huione Group, was seized in Phnom Penh and sent back to China. Authorities say he helped hide illegal profits and ran casinos, among other shady businesses. The crackdown follows China’s ongoing efforts to fight cross‑border fraud in Southeast Asia. Many scammers lure victims worldwide from secure bases, often trapping Chinese citizens who are forced into the schemes. Last year, a New York Times report revealed that Huione’s companies ran a global laundering network used by online fraudsters.Li Xiong’s firm, Huione, is linked to Prince Group, which the United States sanctioned for stealing billions from investors through fake investment schemes. The former head of Prince Group, Chen Zhi, was also extradited from Cambodia to China earlier this year. During a televised release, Chinese police showed Li arriving on a plane with handcuffs and a hood. The officers later removed the hood in front of cameras, highlighting the seriousness of the case. This move signals China’s determination to curb organized crime that crosses borders and threatens innocent people around the world.