Cambodia Sees Surge in Human Trafficking Cases in 2024

PHOTO: CAMBODIAN IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT

Cambodia witnessed a sharp rise in human trafficking cases in 2024, with authorities cracking down on nearly 200 incidents and more than doubling the deportation of foreign offenders, according to a newly released government report.

The National Committee for Countering Human Trafficking reported on 27 March that 197 cases were investigated last year—an increase of 33 from 2023—leading to 273 arrests. Additionally, authorities handled 922 cases resulting in the deportation of 5,852 individuals, a stark rise from 2,159 in the previous year.

Chinese nationals accounted for the largest share of deportees, with 2,695 sent back—more than double the 1,011 repatriated in 2023. Vietnamese and Indonesian nationals followed, with 1,198 and 861 deportations, respectively.

Interior Minister Sar Sokha warned that Cambodia remains vulnerable to cross-border crimes, including human trafficking and tech-based scams. He noted that criminal networks are using the country as a base for illicit activities, targeting both locals and foreign nationals.

Authorities say they are working closely with embassies and international partners to dismantle trafficking rings and assist victims, while perpetrators continue to face prosecution.

-2025-03-29