Phnom Penh, April 19, 2024 – In a significant rescue operation, the Cambodian government has secured the return of 78 nationals who were duped by brokers into working in Saudi Arabia under false pretenses. Minister of Labor and Vocational Training Heng Sour confirmed that collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the Cambodian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, based in Cairo, Egypt, have successfully coordinated the repatriation.

The 78 individuals are distributed across several cities in Saudi Arabia, with 51 in Jeddah, 15 in Riyadh, and 12 in Dammam. They are currently assembled at designated gathering spots in each city, awaiting their flights. The first group of 29 returned on April 19, followed by 27 on April 20, and the final group of 22 is scheduled to return on April 21, 2024.

During their wait, Ouk Sarun, the Cambodian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, is overseeing the completion of various necessary documents and coordinating with local immigration officials to facilitate their meals and accommodation.

This initiative follows a direct intervention by Prime Minister Hun Manet, who was moved by the workers' plight. In a video call conducted by Minister Sour at 11:38 PM on April 18, the workers in Jeddah were reassured of the government's commitment to their safety and imminent repatriation.

The Royal Government has confirmed the arrangement for purchasing air tickets for all 78 workers, ensuring their safe and scheduled return to Cambodia. This operation highlights the government's proactive stance in safeguarding its citizens abroad and addressing the challenges posed by illegal employment practices.