Chen Zhi, the Founder and Chairman of Prince Group, has been arrested by Cambodian authorities and extradited to the People’s Republic of China, marking a significant development in regional law enforcement cooperation. The arrest was officially confirmed in a press release issued by Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior on the evening of January 7, 2026. Alongside Chen Zhi, two other Chinese nationals, Xu Ji Liang and Shao Ji Hui, were also detained and transferred to China. The ministry stated, “Within the scope of cooperation in combating transnational crime and pursuant to a request from the relevant authorities of the People’s Republic of China, the authorities of the Kingdom of Cambodia have arrested three Chinese nationals namely Chen Zhi, Xu Ji Liang, and Shao Ji Hui and extradited to the People’s Republic of China,” underscoring the formal and coordinated nature of the operation.
Joint Cambodia China Cooperation Against Transnational Crime
The arrests were the result of several months of joint investigative cooperation between Cambodian and Chinese authorities, reflecting deepening bilateral collaboration in addressing cross border criminal activities. According to the Ministry of Interior, the coordinated operation was carried out on January 6, 2026, following extensive information sharing and investigative efforts between relevant agencies of both countries. The case highlights Cambodia’s role in regional security efforts and its willingness to act on formal requests from international partners when evidence and legal frameworks are in place. Cambodian officials emphasized that the arrests followed due process and were based on requests from the Chinese authorities supported by thorough investigations conducted by Cambodian agencies.
Revocation of Cambodian Nationality
In addition to confirming the arrest and extradition, the Ministry of Interior clarified the legal status of Chen Zhi within Cambodia. The ministry stated that his Cambodian nationality had been revoked in December 2025 by a Royal Decree issued by His Majesty the King, in accordance with the Law on Nationality of the Kingdom of Cambodia. This step was taken prior to the arrest and extradition, reinforcing that the actions against Chen Zhi were grounded in Cambodian law as well as international cooperation frameworks. The clarification was intended to address public questions regarding jurisdiction and legal authority surrounding the case.
Official Statements and Government Position
Further details were provided by Ministry of Interior Deputy Spokesman Touch Sokhak, who explained that the arrests were made at the formal request of the Chinese authorities and were the outcome of comprehensive investigations by relevant Cambodian institutions. He reiterated that the case reflects Cambodia’s commitment to combating transnational crime and upholding international obligations. The government’s statements aimed to reassure the public and business community that legal procedures were followed and that the action was part of a broader strategy to strengthen law enforcement cooperation and regional stability.
Conclusion
The arrest and extradition of Chen Zhi, Founder and Chairman of Prince Group, represent a notable moment in Cambodia China relations and in regional efforts to combat transnational crime. Through months of coordinated investigation, formal legal processes, and high level cooperation, Cambodian authorities demonstrated their commitment to international law enforcement collaboration. As the case proceeds in China, it is likely to remain closely watched by business leaders, policymakers, and observers across the region for its broader implications on governance, accountability, and cross border crime prevention.