KATHMANDU: The Embassy of Nepal in Thailand has issued an urgent advisory to Nepali nationals residing in Cambodia, warning against overstaying visas and involvement in illegal activities, particularly online scam operations.

According to the embassy, a growing number of Nepali citizens have remained in Cambodia even after the expiry of their visas, often under the pretext of tourism.

The embassy has also received reports indicating that some Nepalis are engaged in illicit online scamming centers operating in the country.

The advisory comes in the wake of a new law introduced by the Cambodian government last week, aimed at curbing transnational cybercrime.

Under the law, individuals involved in online scams could face penalties of up to USD 500,000 in fines and life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.

Authorities in Cambodia have also intensified crackdowns, including shutting down and dismantling such centers and arresting those involved.

The embassy has urged all Nepali nationals not to overstay their visas and to refrain from engaging in any unlawful activities. Those already involved in such operations have been strongly advised to immediately cease their activities and return to Nepal.

In addition, the embassy warned against falling prey to offers of high-paying jobs and attractive benefits that lure individuals to Cambodia and other countries on tourist visas.

It stressed that anyone seeking foreign employment must verify job authenticity through the Department of Foreign Employment in Nepal and obtain official labor approval before departure.

To assist in the safe return of Nepali citizens, the embassy has begun collecting data through an online form and has requested all concerned individuals to fill it out.

The embassy has also called on families and relatives in Nepal to report cases of individuals who have traveled to Cambodia on tourist visas without labor approval and may be in distress.

Such information can be shared with the Embassy of Nepal in Bangkok or the Consular Service Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kathmandu.

Furthermore, victims of trafficking or those who suspect foul play have been encouraged to file complaints with the Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau of Nepal Police, either from Cambodia or upon return to Nepal.

The embassy reiterated its commitment to assisting Nepali citizens abroad and urged strict compliance with immigration and labor regulations to avoid severe legal consequences.