Kenyans Stuck in Cambodia Move to Court to Compel Govt to Facilitate Repatriation
Through 10 petitioners, the group lodged a certificate of urgency, alleging that their clients face imminent arrest, imprisonment, and continued abuse if immediate action is not taken.
Allegations of Trafficking
According to the petitioners, the Kenyans were lured out of the country by fraudulent recruitment agents who promised legitimate job opportunities in Thailand. Upon arrival, however, they claim they were transported against their will to Cambodia and handed over to human trafficking syndicates.
Court filings state that the victims were confined in heavily guarded compounds with high perimeter walls and barbed wire, operated by foreign nationals and armed guards. Their phones and personal documents, including passports, were allegedly confiscated.
“Our clients were subjected to forced labour under harsh conditions, including working up to 16 hours a day under extreme performance targets,” the petition read.
In a supporting affidavit, one petitioner detailed systematic misconduct in Cambodia, including harassment, electrocution, and threats of harm by employers.
Police Raid and Current Situation
The compounds were later reportedly raided by Cambodian police, prompting the alleged traffickers to flee and leaving the Kenyans stranded. Petitioners say the group is now staying at a local shelter without access to food, income, or accommodation.
“These Kenyans are stranded, vulnerable, and without basic necessities. Their situation requires urgent diplomatic intervention,” lawyer Danstan Omari, representing the petitioners, stated.
Legal Action Against Government
The stranded Kenyans have sued the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, the Inspector General of Police, the Ministry of Labour, the Directorate of Immigration Services, and the Attorney General. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights was listed as an interested party.
Through their lawyer, the petitioners are seeking conservatory orders compelling the government to take immediate diplomatic action to verify the identities and locations of the stranded Kenyans and guarantee their safe repatriation.
“The alleged violations involve fundamental constitutional rights, including freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment,” the petitioners argued.
Broader Context
The issue of fraudulent recruitment agencies has been prevalent in recent years, with thousands of Kenyans falling victim to false job advertisements in Europe and Asia. In January, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection confirmed that 390 cases of alleged labour and travel agency fraud are currently under investigation.
Authorities have repeatedly warned Kenyans against travelling for jobs through unverified channels, cautioning that such arrangements may limit access to government assistance in cases of distress abroad.
Conclusion
As the February 28 deadline approaches, the plight of Kenyans stranded in Cambodia underscores the growing challenge of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment schemes. With the matter now before the courts, pressure is mounting on the government to act swiftly and ensure the safe return of its citizens.
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Kenyans Stuck in Cambodia Move to Court to Compel Govt to Facilitate Repatriation
