RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Hundreds of Indonesian citizens have reported to the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh after being released from online scam syndicates in Cambodia, seeking assistance for deportation.

Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto confirmed the surge in arrivals, noting it coincides with intensified crackdowns on fraudulent networks ordered by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, which has led syndicates to abruptly abandon their workers.

“In the past two days alone, 308 Indonesians have walked into the embassy after being freed from online scam operations,” Ambassador Santo said in a statement shared via the embassy’s Instagram account, monitored from Jakarta on Monday,

Embassy records show that in January 2026, a total of 375 Indonesians have reported after leaving scam syndicates. Of that number, 243 arrived within just two days, January 16–17, followed by another 65 on January 18.

According to Ambassador Santo, most of the Indonesians are safe and in good health, though their circumstances vary. Some still hold their passports, while others had them confiscated by syndicates. Several face overstaying issues, while others retain valid residence permits in Cambodia.

He added that while some Indonesians expressed interest in finding new jobs in Cambodia, many wish to return home immediately. The embassy, he assured, will process their cases under established procedures, similar to those applied to thousands of Indonesians previously rescued from similar situations.

To expedite deportations, the embassy will strengthen coordination with Cambodian authorities and relevant agencies in Indonesia. However, Ambassador Santo emphasized that all Indonesians are being directed to return home independently.

The ambassador also reminded citizens not to be lured by job offers promising high salaries with little experience, and to avoid involvement in illegal activities abroad, particularly online scam syndicates. ***