Indonesian Embassy Handles 1,440 Online Scam Victims

RRI.CO.ID, Phnom Penh – The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Phnom Penh has handled at least 1,440 cases of Indonesian citizens (WNI) who exited online scam syndicates across various regions of Cambodia between 16 and 20 January 2026.

KBRI Phnom Penh in a statement on Wednesday, 21 January 2026 stated that, “As of Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 21:00 local time, KBRI Phnom Penh continues to receive the arrival of Indonesian citizens who previously exited online scam syndicates in various provinces in Cambodia.”

The embassy reported that the largest wave of arrivals was recorded on Monday, January 19, 2026, with as many as 520 WNI arriving in a single day. This figure is considered significant, given that throughout 2025 KBRI Phnom Penh handled a total of 5,008 WNI cases.

The embassy further stated that the main issues faced by these Indonesian citizens were the absence of passports and their presence in Cambodia without valid immigration permits. “The main problems they face are not possessing passports and residing in Cambodia without valid immigration authorization,” KBRI Phnom Penh stated.

Data collection and assessment processes are ongoing, alongside the mass issuance of Emergency Travel Documents (SPLP) for WNI who have completed the required documentation. Indonesian citizens requiring medical attention have been referred to healthcare facilities, while four WNI were reported to have returned to Indonesia independently on 20 January 2026.

In addition, KBRI Phnom Penh continues to coordinate with Cambodian government authorities, including the police and immigration offices, to accelerate the deportation process. Mechanisms for overstay fine reductions and expedited issuance of exit permits by Cambodian Immigration are currently being finalized.

“KBRI continues close coordination with Cambodian government authorities, including the police and immigration, to speed up the deportation process for Indonesian citizens. Mechanisms for reducing overstay fines and accelerating the issuance of exit permits by Cambodian Immigration are currently being finalized,” KBRI Phnom Penh stated.