Kuching teen held in Cambodia after falling for job scam, captors demand USD8,000 ransom

Foo said the teenager had pleaded for help, telling his parents that his captors demanded payment by 11.30pm today, warning that if the ransom was not paid, he would be “beaten and sold” to other countries such as India, Vietnam, the Philippines or within Cambodia itself.

“The victim told his mother that if the ransom wasn’t paid, ‘that’s the end’ – which left the family deeply distressed,” he said.

He revealed that the teenager was one of four Sarawakians allegedly recruited by the same middleman in Kuching, who is believed to have received RM1,000 in commission for each recruit, with one of the victims reportedly already ‘sold off’ to another country.

“The individual who introduced the victim to the syndicate is a 20-year-old car wash worker in Kuching,” Foo said, noting that the parents have since provided the suspect’s details to the police.

The family has lodged a police report and sought assistance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Sarawak regional office).

“I’ve advised the parents to submit all supporting documents to the ministry, which will forward the case to the Cambodian Embassy for coordination with local authorities.

“I’ve also relayed the case details to the Malaysian Embassy in Cambodia to expedite rescue efforts,” Foo said.

He added that police are currently investigating the case, including tracing the bank account and the individual receiving the ransom funds.

Meanwhile, the victim’s mother made an emotional plea for help, appealing to the authorities and the Cambodian ambassador to intervene.

“I just want my son home safely. Please help us. We can’t sleep or eat because we’re so worried about him,” she said tearfully.

Foo urged the public, particularly jobseekers, to exercise caution when considering overseas employment offers that appear too good to be true.

“Always verify job opportunities through proper channels. These scams often prey on young people’s hopes for better prospects,” he warned.

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