Victims of Cambodia's scam industry, many from African nations, are left stranded and vulnerable after a government crackdown on compounds. Despite rescues, many face homelessness, exploitation, and lack of support, struggling to return home.
Amnesty International reports 86 online scam compounds in Cambodia as of April, up from 53 a year ago, contradicting government claims of success in dismantling the industry.
Scam centre survivors say they are hurt by games that serialise scam compound experiences online, but one creator says he hopes people find the game "fun".
The US Treasury designated Cambodian Senator Kok An and 28 associates as 'specially designated nationals' for allegedly controlling scam compounds that have defrauded millions from Americans. The sanctions freeze US assets and bar Americans from dealing with the designated parties. Kok An has close ties to former leader Hun Sen, whose son now serves as prime minister, raising questions about the proximity between alleged scam operations and Cambodia's political dynasty.
