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The Embassy of Sierra Leone in the People’s Republic of China has formally written to authorities in the Kingdom of Cambodia requesting a waiver of fines and leniency for Sierra Leonean nationals currently stranded in the Southeast Asian country.
The move follows reports that about 60 Sierra Leoneans were taken to Cambodia by individuals who allegedly promised them lucrative job opportunities, only for the situation to deteriorate after their arrival. The stranded nationals are reportedly being asked by their captors to pay $7,000 each to secure their release.
In response to the situation, the Sierra Leone Embassy in Beijing sent a Note Verbale dated 13th March 2026 (SLE/PEK/ADMIN/NV No.53/26) to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia in Phnom Penh.
In the diplomatic communication, the Embassy presented its compliments and referred to the situation involving Sierra Leonean citizens currently residing in Cambodia whose visas have unfortunately expired due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Embassy respectfully requested the cooperation of the Royal Government of Cambodia in granting an overstay waiver and the issuance of exit visas to the affected Sierra Leonean nationals to enable them regularize their departure from the country.
It further appealed to Cambodian authorities to refrain from detaining or imposing penalties on the Sierra Leoneans for immigration overstays while the necessary waivers and exit documentation are being processed. According to the Embassy, such consideration would help facilitate the orderly and voluntary departure of the affected citizens.
The Embassy also assured the Cambodian government of its full cooperation with the relevant authorities to ensure that the individuals comply with all applicable immigration procedures and leave Cambodia in accordance with the country’s rules and regulations.
The diplomatic mission concluded by renewing to the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation the assurances of its highest consideration.
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