China Urges Chen Zhi Syndicate Fugitives to Surrender as Regional Crackdown Intensifies

China has formally called on fugitives linked to the Chen Zhi syndicate to surrender by February 15, escalating pressure on one of the most notorious criminal networks operating across Southeast Asia. According to official Chinese statements, the syndicate is accused of orchestrating large-scale telecom and online fraud, money laundering, and other cross-border crimes that have victimized thousands, primarily targeting Chinese nationals. Authorities framed the ultimatum as a final opportunity for suspects to return voluntarily and potentially receive leniency under Chinese law.

The call comes amid growing cooperation between China and Cambodia, where many scam operations are believed to be based. Cambodian law enforcement, under mounting international scrutiny, has intensified raids on suspected scam compounds, detained foreign nationals, and pledged deeper collaboration with Chinese investigators. Regional analysts note that these actions reflect a broader push by Phnom Penh to counter perceptions that the country is a safe haven for transnational crime.

Chinese authorities allege that the Chen Zhi syndicate relied on complex structures—shell companies, cryptocurrency channels, and coerced labor—to sustain operations. In recent months, Beijing has highlighted a wave of arrests and asset seizures tied to similar networks, signaling a shift from warnings to decisive enforcement. Officials stressed that surrendering before the deadline could lead to reduced sentences, while those who resist face harsher penalties once apprehended.

The ultimatum also underscores a wider regional trend. Southeast Asian governments, including Cambodia, have stepped up enforcement following diplomatic pressure, domestic reputational concerns, and the humanitarian fallout linked to scam centers. Human rights groups have repeatedly reported cases of trafficked workers forced into online fraud, prompting authorities to pair criminal prosecutions with victim rescue operations. Observers say coordinated deadlines like this one are designed to fracture syndicates by sowing fear and encouraging defections.

Looking ahead, experts expect sustained cross-border operations even after the February deadline, with financial tracking and extradition requests playing a bigger role. Whether the Chen Zhi syndicate’s fugitives comply remains uncertain, but the message from Beijing is clear: tolerance for large-scale online fraud has ended, and the regional net around scam networks is tightening.