Over 600 Kenyans trapped in Cambodia trafficking case
Legal Efforts to Repatriate Kenyan Nationals from Cambodia
Legal Efforts to Repatriate Kenyan Nationals from Cambodia
Kenyan nationals stranded in Cambodia have filed a case in the High Court of Nairobi, requesting judicial intervention to facilitate their return after alleging involvement in a human trafficking situation under the guise of overseas employment.
The claimants report that, upon arrival in Southeast Asia with promises of legitimate employment, they found themselves confined within a heavily secured compound. The compound was described as being surrounded by high walls and barbed wire, with restricted movement.
The petitioners allege working extensive hours, sometimes reaching up to 16 hours a day, under significant pressure to meet demanding targets. Some individuals reported instances of physical abuse and untreated injuries.
The claimants report that, upon arrival in Southeast Asia with promises of legitimate employment, they found themselves confined within a heavily secured compound.
While the exact nature of the work remains unspecified in the filings, it is noted that Cambodian authorities have been dismantling facilities associated with online fraud networks, which are proliferating in the region.
The situation changed following a raid by local security forces, leading to the operators' departure. The Kenyans claim they are now left in challenging conditions, lacking sufficient food, medical care, and the means to depart Cambodia.
The legal action seeks a court directive for Kenya’s foreign affairs ministry and related agencies to provide urgent consular support, issue temporary travel documents, and arrange evacuation flights. The petition emphasizes the state's constitutional duty to protect its citizens from exploitation, including overseas.
The petitioners have been instructed by Cambodian authorities to leave the country by Tue, Feb 28, 2023, or face potential legal actions, including possible detention. Many are unable to afford the return costs independently.
Kenya’s foreign ministry has not been formally briefed on the issue, and Cambodian officials have yet to respond to inquiries. Nairobi judges are expected to review the case on Tuesday, amid mounting pressure for a coordinated response to this cross-border trafficking situation.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
