International
Hundreds of Nepalis Still Trapped in Cambodian Scam Compounds Despite Crackdown
By Ranjeet Yadav • 5/4/2026, 10:12:31 AM
Reading time: 3 min
4 May Kathmandu Despite intensified crackdowns by Cambodian authorities on illegal online scam networks, hundreds of Nepali citizens remain trapped inside scam compounds, raising serious concerns about human trafficking and worker exploitation.
According to recent reports, the Nepali embassy has already begun efforts to repatriate at least 277 individuals, but many others are still stranded under difficult and often dangerous conditions.
⚠️ Caught in Scam Networks
Many of the victims were lured to Cambodia with the false promise of lucrative jobs in sectors such as:
- Casino security
- Service to the customer
- IT work
But on arrival they were forced into illegal online scam operations, often under heavy surveillance.
Some victims said that they were asked to commit frauds targeting foreigners, using scripts prepared by organized criminal groups.
🔗 Role of Trafficking Networks
Investigation has revealed that the recruitment agents and intermediaries, including Nepali middlemen, are deeply involved in these operations.
Victims say:
- Many were duped before they left
- Upon arrival passports confiscated
- Movement was heavily restricted
One victim said: “If recruitment from Nepal is stopped then fewer people would be caught up in this cycle,” highlighting the role of local agents.
🛑 Crackdown But Crisis Continues
Cambodia has taken steps to shut down scam centers and deport foreign workers, with hundreds of compounds reportedly targeted in recent operations.
However, experts say:
- Crackdowns have not fully broken up the networks
- Many operations shift or remain underground
- Raids do not save victims
The result has been a continuing humanitarian problem, with many people left stranded without documents or support.
🧍♂️ More Victims
The number of Nepalis going to Cambodia has increased significantly in recent years, and so has the number of victims.
According to the reports:
- Many are informally or illegally employed
- Workers are often unaware of the risks
- Rescue work is increasing but not fast enough
Dozens of Nepalis have been rescued and repatriated in past incidents, but many others remain unaccounted for.
🛡️ Urgent action needed
Authorities and experts urge:
- Strict control of foreign employment channels
- Jobseeker awareness campaigns
- Actions targeting human trafficking networks
They stress that prevention is as important as rescue.
📌 Abstract
The suffering of Nepalis caught up in the Cambodian scam highlights a rising global alarm over cyber crime associated with human trafficking.
But the fact that hundreds remain shows the problem is far from solved, even if crackdowns have made some headway. Vulnerable workers need better protection, via enhanced international cooperation and more stringent regulation of recruitment practices.
Tags: Cambodia Scam, Nepali Workers Abroad, Human Trafficking Nepal, Foreign Employment Risk
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