Hundreds of Indonesians Detained in Cambodia Over Online Scam Links

RRI.CO.ID, Phnom Penh - Around 400 Indonesian nationals formerly linked to Cambodia’s online fraud syndicates are currently being held in detention facilities across several cities in the country.

According to the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh, these individuals were apprehended during police raids between February and May 2026.

On May 21–22, embassy officials conducted consular visits to 265 Indonesians detained in Bati, Takeo Province, to assess their condition and identify needs for repatriation.

“We remain committed to providing consular assistance and protection for all Indonesians facing legal or immigration issues,” the embassy stated on Monday, May 25. It also urged Indonesians to be cautious of overseas job offers lacking clear legality and credibility.

The embassy further confirmed that Cambodian authorities have approved the waiver of overstay fines for an additional 1,273 Indonesians seeking repatriation.

With this latest approval, the total number of Indonesians granted overstay fine waivers has reached 5,950. These individuals were among foreign nationals affected by Cambodia’s intensified crackdown on online fraud networks since early 2026.

Between mid-January and May 22, 2026, a total of 9,537 Indonesians reported to the embassy requesting assistance. Many face obstacles returning home, including lack of passports, heavy overstay fines, and insufficient funds to purchase tickets.

The sheer volume of cases has made handling them increasingly complex.

As of May 22, the embassy has facilitated the return of 3,630 Indonesians. Cambodian authorities have instructed those granted overstay fine waivers to leave the country no later than June 15, 2026.

Beyond immigration issues, some Indonesians also struggle financially to meet basic needs while awaiting repatriation. The embassy provides temporary shelter, though its facilities have reached maximum capacity at around 300 people. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)