More than 40 Liberians stranded in Cambodia — including over 15 currently languishing in prison — are crying out for urgent intervention from their government, describing a harrowing ordeal that began with promises of legitimate employment in Vietnam but ended in despair, detention, and desperation.
According to a letter addressed to Liberian authorities, the group was allegedly recruited by a Chinese company offering what appeared to be genuine job opportunities in Vietnam. But upon arrival, their belongings and travel documents were confiscated, and they were forcibly transported across the border into Cambodia.
“We were recruited under the pretense of legitimate employment in Vietnam. When we arrived, our belongings including travel documents were taken from us, and we were later transported into Cambodia,” the group stated.
What followed was more than a year of captivity under grueling conditions. Survivors allege they were coerced into activities they had never agreed to perform, until Cambodian authorities raided the operation and freed them. Yet freedom has brought little relief.
Despite being rescued, many now find themselves destitute. “We have no money, no phones, no food, and no place to stay. We cannot regularize our immigration status or afford tickets to return to Liberia,” the group wrote.
They say they sought help from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), but were advised to pursue support through Liberian diplomatic channels. Meanwhile, nationals from other countries rescued in similar operations have already been repatriated with assistance from their governments.
“Nationals from other countries have received help from their embassies and have been able to return home. Unfortunately, we remain stranded and vulnerable,” the statement lamented.
The group describes worsening living conditions, with some sleeping in unsafe locations and struggling to find food, shelter, and medical care. “Food is becoming scarce, and many of us are going hungry. Our health is deteriorating because of poor living conditions and the stress of uncertainty,” they said.
Among those affected are women and other vulnerable individuals who urgently need assistance. The situation is especially dire for more than 15 Liberians currently detained by Cambodian immigration authorities for lacking proper documentation.
Supporters warn that conditions inside the detention facility are alarming. “Many of them are suffering from hunger, inadequate medical care, and emotional distress. Some are ill and unable to access the medication they need,” one appeal noted.
The detainees’ only offense, according to the group, is overstaying their visas. Cambodian authorities have made clear that release and repatriation are only possible if funds are available to purchase airline tickets back to Liberia.
“Their only offense is overstaying their visas in Cambodia. The only way they can leave detention is if they are able to secure tickets home,” the appeal emphasized.
Now, the stranded Liberians are appealing not only to their government but also to humanitarian organizations, religious institutions, and well-meaning individuals to help facilitate their return.
“We are citizens of Liberia, and we are asking our government not to forget us. Please help us return home and reunite with our families,” the group pleaded.
As of press time, there has been no official public response from the Liberian government regarding the appeal. For now, the stranded Liberians say they continue to wait, clinging to hope that assistance will arrive before their situation worsens.
“We feel forgotten. But we still believe our government will hear our cry and help bring us home,” they wrote.
