Phnom penh: The authorities in Cambodia have agreed to the early repatriation of 54 Pakistani nationals detained in Siem Reap Province. Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi announced this development in a statement, addressing inquiries about the detained Pakistanis in Cambodia.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Pakistan Embassy in Cambodia has been actively working on the matter with the Cambodian Government. This effort follows instructions from Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, emphasizing that aiding the Pakistani community abroad is a top priority. The detained individuals were arrested during a raid on a scamming compound.
The Spokesperson mentioned that the Embassy staff are taking necessary steps to ensure the welfare of the detained Pakistanis. Arrangements are being made for the detainees to leave Cambodia as soon as flight logistics are finalized.
As a gesture of goodwill from the Cambodian authorities, the detainees will be repatriated without facing any legal proceedings under the "Law on Combating Online Scams," which was enacted on April 7, 2026, and includes severe prison sentences and heavy fines.
