In Cambodia, thousands leave scam compounds and face limited help

Thousands have left scam compounds in Cambodia and shelters and services are struggling to keep up; the government says individuals are being screened and offered assistance while funding cuts have reduced capacity.

Thousands of people have recently left scam compounds in Cambodia, creating a large movement of survivors into cities such as Phnom Penh. Shelters and rescuers report rising demand at the same time as funding that previously supported victim services has been cut. The Cambodian government rejects claims it is failing victims and states that people are screened and given protection and assistance. The issue has drawn international attention after the country extradited a suspected scam kingpin to China in January. Current known facts: - A surge of people leaving scam compounds has strained the only shelter in Phnom Penh that accepts such survivors, which is operating with reduced staff and budget. - International funding that previously supported the shelter and partners was reduced after U.S. foreign assistance was suspended, affecting food and capacity. - Activists and rescuers report many displaced people sleeping on streets or unable to access shelter, while some have returned to compounds because they lack alternatives. - Cambodian officials say all individuals are screened to separate victims from perpetrators and that victims receive protection, shelter, medical care and assistance for safe return. Summary: The departures from scam compounds have created a significant humanitarian strain on local shelters and service providers, compounded by funding cuts and limited capacity. The government asserts screening and assistance are in place, but many survivors remain without steady support. Undetermined at this time.