The Cambodian government has consented to the early repatriation of 54 Pakistani nationals who were detained in Siem Reap Province, confirmed Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi on Tuesday. These individuals were arrested after a raid on a compound linked to online scams.
Notably, the Pakistan Embassy in Cambodia has been actively engaged with Cambodian officials to resolve the situation. This initiative aligns with directives from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, emphasizing all possible measures to support Pakistanis living abroad.
As a result of the embassy’s persistent efforts, the Foreign Office spokesperson stated that embassy personnel are currently working to safeguard the detainees’ welfare. The detainees are expected to depart Cambodia once flight arrangements are finalized.
In a significant development, Cambodian authorities have agreed to repatriate the detainees without initiating legal proceedings under the recently enacted ‘Law on Combating Online Scams,’ effective from 7 April 2026. This law carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms and substantial fines.
Meanwhile, a Pakistani citizen detained in Cambodia alleged that local police demanded $1,500 per person for deportation, a bribe the detainees cannot afford. He described the prison conditions as extremely harsh, claiming detainees were forced to eat from plates also used to feed dogs.
He further revealed that several Pakistani nationals remain incarcerated in Cambodian jails. The detainee shared that he had arrived in Cambodia two years ago through an agent, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistanis in the country.
