RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh is grappling with a surge of citizens seeking urgent protection after breaking free from online scam syndicates in Cambodia, underscoring the scale of a growing transnational crime problem.

The Embassy reported that between January 16–20, 2026, a total of 1,440 Indonesian citizens (WNI) came directly to the embassy to request assistance after breaking free from online scam syndicates operating across Cambodia.

“Given the ongoing enforcement actions by local authorities, the arrival of Indonesian citizens is expected to continue for some time,” the embassy said in a press release received in Jakarta on Wednesday, January 21, as quoted by Antara.

Earlier, the embassy had recorded 911 Indonesians reporting to Phnom Penh as of January 19. The largest single-day influx occurred on Monday, January 19, when 520 citizens arrived. Four others managed to return to Indonesia independently on Tuesday morning, January 20.

According to the embassy, the main issues faced by those seeking assistance are the absence of passports and their residence in Cambodia without valid immigration documents. Embassy staff are conducting data collection and assessments to facilitate their return.

“Mass issuance of temporary travel documents (Surat Perjalanan Laksana Paspor/SPLP) has begun for those who have completed the registration process. Citizens requiring medical care have been taken to health facilities,” the statement added.

The embassy urged Indonesians who have escaped online scam syndicates but remain in Cambodia to immediately report to the embassy to receive consular assistance and facilitation for repatriation.

Close coordination is ongoing with Cambodian authorities, including police and immigration, to expedite deportation procedures. The embassy noted that mechanisms for waiving overstay fines and accelerating exit permits are currently being finalized by Cambodian immigration.

The embassy also warned citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent schemes impersonating the embassy, while reaffirming its commitment to prioritize the protection of Indonesians and ensure their safe, orderly, and swift return home.

Earlier this month, the embassy had already handled more than 1,047 problematic cases involving Indonesian citizens, showing a sharp increase compared to 2025, when a total of 5,088 cases were managed throughout the year. Of those, 82 percent were linked to Indonesians claiming involvement in online scam syndicates. ***