The Dramatic Rise and Swift Downfall of Alleged Scam Boss Chen Zhi
Background and Alleged Activities
Chen Zhi, a billionaire accused of running a criminal network, allegedly built an empire based on scams, trafficking, and political protection. He once claimed a net worth of up to $90 billion and was associated with the Prince Group, which operated across multiple jurisdictions.
Expansion into Cybercrime and Fraud
Following Cambodia’s 2019 ban on online gambling, Chen’s operations shifted to telecom and cryptocurrency fraud. These scams were often run from fortified locations in Cambodia, with operations involving foreign nationals and digital platforms.
Legal Actions and Extradition
- The United States Department of Justice charged Chen in October 2025 with wire fraud, money laundering, and other offences.
- On January 8, 2026, Chen was extradited from Cambodia to China, as confirmed by Beijing authorities.
- The Commission for Combating Online Scams (CCOS) in Cambodia cracked down on 92 online scam locations, arresting 3,455 foreigners across Phnom Penh.
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
Chen’s case has drawn significant international attention, with outlets such as Bloomberg, the Australian Financial Review, and Nikkei Asia reporting on his rise and fall. The incident has been described as a potential wake-up call for scam operations in the Mekong region.
來源：https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-10/the-global-takedown-of-alleged-scam-boss-chen-zhi