Indonesian Citizens in Cambodia Urged to Respect Local Laws Amidst Online Fraud Crackdown

The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh has issued a reminder to Indonesian citizens in Cambodia to always obey and respect local laws, as the Cambodian government strengthens its law enforcement against online fraud activities. According to a statement from the embassy, from January 1 to September 15, 2026, a total of 12,940 Indonesian citizens sought assistance to return home after being involved in online fraud networks. Of these, 8,252 have been facilitated to return to Indonesia. Currently, around 700 Indonesian citizens remain in temporary shelters and Cambodian immigration detention facilities, even after receiving travel documents and being released from overstaying fines. Some have been in these facilities since February 2026. "We appeal to Indonesian citizens who have obtained travel documents not to delay their return and immediately buy tickets to Indonesia," stated the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh, quoting Charge d'Affaires Krishnajie Partadireja. This appeal comes as Cambodia intensifies its legal enforcement against online fraud, particularly since the enactment of the Law on Combating Online Scams on April 7, 2026, which also targets foreign nationals suspected of involvement. The embassy has also received information about Indonesian citizens being apprehended by Cambodian authorities during law enforcement operations. Since early September 2026, 118 Indonesian citizens have been secured in various operations and are currently held in prisons in Battambang Province and Serei Saophoan City, Banteay Meanchey Province. Indonesian citizens suspected of involvement in online fraud activities will undergo legal proceedings in accordance with Cambodian law. The embassy reiterated its call for all Indonesian citizens in Cambodia to respect local regulations and avoid engaging in illegal activities. It was noted that many who sought assistance had arrived in Cambodia after the anti-scam law was enacted. The embassy has also identified former online fraud syndicate members who, despite receiving assistance and accommodation, have been involved in other criminal activities such as drug trafficking, theft, and persecution of fellow Indonesian citizens. "The actions of some Indonesian citizens continuing to commit criminal acts in Cambodia tarnish Indonesia's good name. The embassy is coordinating with Cambodian authorities to monitor the developments," an embassy official explained. "The Indonesian Embassy respects the ongoing legal process in Cambodia and ensures that consular access to Indonesian citizens is fulfilled in accordance with international law." The embassy emphasized the Indonesian government's commitment to supporting Cambodia's efforts in eradicating online fraud through enhanced law enforcement cooperation. Both governments have agreed on cooperation in taking legal action against Indonesian citizens involved in online fraud and in tracing illicit funds. "Furthermore, the Indonesian government will participate in the International Conference on Combating Online Fraud to be held in Phnom Penh from September 23-24, 2026," Krishnajie added.