Synopsis: Authorities step up enforcement against transnational cybercrime networks as repatriation efforts continue.
Authorities deported 355 Indonesian nationals, including 54 women, over two days over their involvement in online scam activities, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) reported.
The deportations on Sunday and yesterday were conducted in cooperation with the Indonesian Embassy as part of a campaign against technology-related crimes.
The GDI said 180 of them left on Sunday, followed by 175 yesterday. Both operations were led by the department’s Investigation and Procedure Enforcement Department under Director-General Sok Veasna, following instructions from Interior Minister Sar Sokha.
The department said the actions reflected the government’s determination to enforce immigration laws and target online scams involving foreign nationals. It reiterated Prime Minister Hun Manet’s position that Cambodia will not tolerate criminals using its territory for fraudulent activities.
The prime minister said authorities should continue to identify, crack down on and deport those involved without exception to safeguard national security. Law enforcement agencies have intensified investigations into cybercrimes to apprehend masterminds, while authorities work simultaneously to rescue victims and ensure their safe return.
The latest deportations form part of efforts to eliminate scam operations. Earlier this month, the Indonesian Embassy reported receiving 13,400 requests for assistance from nationals involved in scam and gambling syndicates. Most requested help to return home due to a lack of travel documents, overstay fines or funds for flights.
The embassy assessed each case, finding that none of the individuals were identified as victims of trafficking.
“The Indonesian nationals said that they were aware they would be working for online scam and gambling syndicates,” said Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Krishnajie Partadirej. Some arrived after April, when Cambodia’s anti-online scam law took effect.
To facilitate repatriation, the Embassy issued more than 5,300 emergency travel documents, secured waivers for overstay fines for 5,950 individuals and provided transport and assistance. As of October 7, a total of 8,415 Indonesians had been assisted in returning home.
Meanwhile, the government expanded operations against scam centres to target online gambling operations on October 1, 2026. Over the past week, 562 nationals were detained, including 550 in Poipet and 12 in Sihanoukville.
The embassy visited the 550 individuals at a temporary detention facility and found them to be in good condition and receiving consular services.
Partadirej urged Indonesians in Cambodia to comply with local laws and refrain from illegal activities to avoid legal consequences.
