PHNOM PENH: The Chinese Embassy in Cambodia has posted a letter addressed to Taiwanese citizens in Cambodia who have been victim to scamming, fraud, forced labor and other illegal activities.

On Saturday, 20 August, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Cambodia posted a letter on its website acknowledging recent media reports of Taiwanese citizens having their personal freedoms restricted in Cambodia after being scammed and forced to engage in online gambling, telecommunications fraud and other illegal activities.

The Embassy stated that Taiwanese citizens are also Chinese citizens, therefore, it is the responsibility of Chinese embassies and consulates abroad to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwan compatriots. The Embassy further asserted that it has always paid equal attention to Chinese citizens from Taiwan, whether through efforts to vaccinate the population against Covid-19, or through the rescue of citizens in distress.

“No matter what difficulties you encounter in Cambodia, you can contact us directly," said the Embassy.

"The Chinese embassy in Cambodia will, as always, provide timely and efficient services to all Chinese citizens in Cambodia, including Taiwan compatriots, in accordance with laws and regulations of the consular protection services."

The following contacts are listed for Taiwanese citizens seeking help:

Cambodia police: 117

Cambodia Police Department Foreigner Helpline: 0312012345, 0316012345

Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Global Consular Protection and Service Emergency Call Center: +86-10-12308 or +86-10-59913991

Consular protection and assistance number of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia: 023210206; Inquiry email: lingbao_khm@sina.com

Consular Protection and Assistance Telephone of the Consular Office of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia in Siem Reap: 078946178

Consular Protection and Assistance Telephone of the Consular Office of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia in Sihanoukville: 061983749