Preah Sihanouk Provincial Television, August 11. Many Cambodians working in Thailand chose to return via land crossings over concerns about safety and discrimination. Several told the station that Thai personnel had asked them to pay about 500 to 600 baht each, or US$15 to US$18, on departure.
Workers interviewed said the charge was described as necessary for a smooth return, but nobody explained what it covered. A 52-year-old worker named in the Chinese report as 马万纳 said the group was told to pay before getting transport from the worksite. They complied because they feared delays or obstacles.
He had worked in a Thai brick factory since 2015. He said the pay was higher than at home, but described persistent discrimination and poor treatment. On return, he said Cambodian officials charged nothing and arranged food, accommodation, medical checks and transport home.
Another worker, named in the report as 松拉, said he left as soon as the government called for workers to return. He also reported paying 500 baht. He said he would seek work in Cambodia in future.
At the time, Thai authorities had not formally responded to the reported departure fees.
KPS99TV newsroom compilation
