Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has debunked a widely circulated notice about the deportation of Ghanaian nationals from Cambodia. The ministry confirmed that the purported directive for Africans to leave Cambodia by May 31, 2026, was entirely fraudulent.
This fraudulent notice had sparked significant concern among Ghanaians both at home and abroad. It claimed citizens from Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda faced arrest and prosecution if they did not leave Cambodia by the deadline. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs conducted investigations and diplomatic engagements to verify the notice’s authenticity.
This event fits into a broader narrative of government efforts to protect Ghanaian citizens abroad and manage misinformation. Ghana’s government often responds to issues affecting its citizens in foreign countries, using its diplomatic channels. The current situation highlights the challenge of tackling fake news that can create fear and uncertainty.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Friday, May 29, confirming the notice was fake. It said that consultations with Cambodian authorities proved the document did not come from any official Cambodian institution. Ghana's High Commission in Malaysia, which also covers Cambodia, engaged with Cambodian counterparts.
The ministry's statement highlighted efforts to verify the notice through diplomatic channels. “The ministry wishes to assure the public that following diplomatic engagements with the relevant Cambodian authorities, it has been confirmed that the said notice is absolutely fake and was not issued by any state institution in Cambodia,” the statement read.
The Cambodian General Department of Immigration, under its Ministry of Interior, also issued its own clarification. This official Cambodian statement categorically rejected the authenticity of the purported notice. This dual confirmation reinforces the fraudulent nature of the document.
The government urges the public, including media and social media users, to disregard the false notice. It warned against circulating unverified information, which could cause unnecessary panic. This call addresses the problem of misinformation, which can lead to social unrest and fear.
Despite the fake deportation notice, some Ghanaian nationals in Cambodia have expressed a desire to return home voluntarily. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already facilitated the return of 85 Ghanaians. These repatriations occurred between March and May of this year.
Furthermore, arrangements are currently underway to assist an additional 76 Ghanaian nationals. These Ghanaians have also indicated their willingness to return home. This repatriation exercise is part of the government’s broader program to provide consular support to citizens abroad, especially those in difficult situations.
The government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians globally. Ghanaian diplomatic officials maintain close contact with Cambodian authorities to ensure the safety of Ghanaians there. This commitment reflects Ghana’s foreign policy priority of protecting its citizens.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended the Cambodian government for its strong cooperation in this matter. It assured affected families that efforts to facilitate safe and orderly returns are ongoing. The Ministry advises the public to trust only official government communications for information about Ghanaians abroad.