Over 8,000 Indonesians Seek Repatriation from Cambodia Scam Sector

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Thousands of Indonesians formerly trapped in Cambodia’s online fraud networks have sought assistance to return home, with the Embassy in Phnom Penh reporting a sharp surge in repatriation requests since mid‑April 2026.

By May 5, a total of 8,002 Indonesian nationals had asked the embassy for help, after leaving fraudulent operations and facing difficulties such as overstaying visas, lacking passports, and financial hardship. Of these, 3,348 have already been facilitated to return to Indonesia.

“The trend of complaints has risen significantly, averaging more than 100 reports per day since mid‑April. On May 5 alone, 180 Indonesians came forward,” the embassy said in a statement received Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

The increase coincides with intensified crackdowns by Cambodian authorities following Khmer New Year celebrations. Law enforcement operations have expanded into areas previously less affected, including Poipet, a border city long known as a hub for Indonesian workers.

To ease the repatriation process, the embassy continues to coordinate with Cambodian authorities to secure waivers for overstay fines. So far, penalties have been lifted for 4,677 Indonesians.

The surge in arrivals has stretched the embassy’s temporary shelter to capacity, forcing some to be placed on a waiting list. Officials expect the number of Indonesians seeking assistance will continue to grow as anti‑fraud operations widen across Cambodia.

The embassy urged those who have received overstay waivers and travel documents to promptly purchase tickets back to Indonesia, freeing space for others still awaiting documentation and immigration clearance. It also reminded returnees not to go back to Cambodia or re‑enter online fraud networks. (Diffa Sephiawardhani/Sri Wahyuni)