Spokesperson provides updates on citizen protection for Vietnamese detained in Indonesia and Cambodia

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang provides information on citizen protection over 800 Vietnamese detained in Indonesia and Cambodia. (Photo: Nguyen Hong)

Recently, Indonesian authorities/police dismantled an online fraud and gambling network, detaining 125 Vietnamese in Batam and 228 in Jakarta.

In response to a reporter's inquiry about the handling and protection of citizens in this case, Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated that, according to information from the Vietnamese Embassy in Indonesia, the case is still under investigation by the relevant authorities.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has directed the Vietnamese Embassy in Indonesia to closely coordinate with Indonesian authorities to verify information, identify individuals, and implement appropriate citizen protection measures,” the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

Regarding citizen protection, Cambodian media recently reported the arrest of over 5,000 individuals of various nationalities involved in online fraud cases, including more than 460 Vietnamese. A reporter requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify this information.

Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang clarified: “According to the information we received, the Vietnamese Representative Missions in Cambodia have proactively worked with local authorities to gather information, requesting that Cambodia ensure the security, safety, and living conditions for Vietnamese citizens.”

Ms. Hang stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Vietnamese Representative Missions in Cambodia to closely coordinate with local authorities to promptly complete initial identity verification procedures, and to work with domestic and local authorities to implement necessary consular procedures to repatriate citizens as soon as possible.

Since April 1, 2026, the Vietnamese Representative Missions in Cambodia have closely coordinated with local authorities and domestic agencies to repatriate and receive nearly 200 Vietnamese citizens through various border gates.

As we have repeatedly warned, Vietnamese citizens should be cautious of information and recruitment invitations on the internet promising “easy jobs with high salaries” abroad. Invitations that do not require qualifications, have no signed contracts, and are not through labour dispatch enterprises or organizations pose risks of exploitation, forced labour, or human trafficking.

In addition to the efforts of state management agencies, there needs to be a concerted effort and proper awareness from citizens. Accordingly, citizens should thoroughly research and verify information about job content, entities, intended work locations, introducers, insurance regimes, and benefits before deciding to work abroad.