Seoul, Oct 14 (NationPress) The South Korean Police announced on Tuesday their intention to repatriate all 63 South Korean citizens currently detained in Cambodia within the next month. This initiative is part of their comprehensive strategy to combat the rising tide of crimes directed at South Koreans in the Southeast Asian region.

The National Police Agency (NPA) indicated that their top priority will be the safe return of these nationals. Additionally, they plan to send two extra police officers to South Korea's diplomatic mission in Cambodia, which currently consists of three officers, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.

This decision follows alarming reports of increased kidnappings and detentions of South Koreans in Cambodia, primarily victims of fraudulent job offers. A particularly shocking case involved the death of a South Korean college student in his twenties, who was tortured and detained by a scam operation run by Chinese nationals, triggering public indignation and prompting a nationwide governmental response.

The 63 individuals whose repatriation is being sought are believed to have been caught during recent Cambodian crackdowns on online scam networks that occurred in July and September.

According to the foreign ministry, approximately 90 South Koreans were apprehended during these operations, with around 60 still in custody. An anonymous ministry official noted that many of the detainees may have voluntarily participated in the scams.

As part of broader protective measures for South Korean citizens, the NPA will establish a dedicated team within its National Office of Investigation. This team will focus on crimes against South Koreans in Cambodia and investigate possible connections with criminal factions operating in South Korea.

Authorities are committed to examining all criminal activities targeting South Koreans in Cambodia. As of the end of August this year, the foreign ministry had recorded a total of 255 incidents reported by South Koreans, though not all were reported to the police.

To further raise awareness, police will also station officers at Incheon International Airport to educate the public about employment scams in the Southeast Asian country.

In recent years, police have documented 143 cases of suspected disappearances and detentions of South Koreans in Cambodia. The NPA revealed that from the beginning of last year until now, 91 of these cases have been resolved, confirming the safety and location of the missing individuals.

However, 52 cases remain under investigation. This is the first time police have disclosed the number of suspected disappearances and detentions in Cambodia, amid escalating public concern regarding crimes targeting South Koreans.

Plans are underway to request the Cambodian police to establish a "Korean Desk" specifically to manage cases involving South Koreans, as well as to enhance police presence in Cambodia and bolster international investigation teams.

High-level police discussions between the two nations are set to occur next Monday regarding the formation of the "Korean Desk," according to police.