A British man has travelled to Cambodia to search for his father, who went missing after falling victim to an online scam. The father, identified as 64-year-old John Smith from Manchester, had been communicating with a woman online who convinced him to travel to Cambodia for a business opportunity. He last contacted his family on 15 October, saying he was in the capital Phnom Penh.
His son, Mark Smith, 32, flew to Cambodia on 20 October after his father stopped responding to messages. Mark has been working with local authorities and volunteers to search for his father. 'I'm very worried. My dad is not the type to just disappear. He was excited about this trip, but now I fear he may have been lured into a trap,' Mark said.
Cambodian police have confirmed they are investigating the case as a potential scam. A police spokesman said: 'We are looking into reports of a foreigner who may have been tricked into coming here. We are checking hotels and other locations where he might have stayed.' The British Embassy in Phnom Penh has also been notified and is providing consular assistance.
Mark has been distributing flyers with his father's photo and has set up a social media campaign to spread awareness. 'I just want to find him and bring him home safely. I urge anyone with information to come forward,' he added. The search continues, with volunteers combing through areas where John was last seen.
