Large numbers of outsiders have recently been gathering and wandering on streets in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and other places. Observers cited in the report said these were not tourists or regular migrant workers but stranded people released when scam compounds were investigated and closed, who had moved into cities without documents or clear destinations.
As Cambodia intensified anti-online-scam enforcement, several compounds were closed and dissolved and many people gained their freedom within a short period. But many lacked lawful status and stable income and had not been promptly returned or accommodated, leaving some dependent on temporary street assistance. Local Chinese businesspeople and residents said these living difficulties posed potential risks to surrounding security and social order.
The government had held a special meeting to plan continuing clearance operations and coordinate returns with foreign embassies. Analysts cited by the report nevertheless saw a short-term gap between compound clearances and accommodation arrangements, making proper handling of stranded people alongside crime suppression an important test of subsequent governance.
Compiled reporting by this station.
