In the peaceful province of Kampong Cham, Cambodia, a 13-year-old girl named Reachny lived a simple and happy life. Born in 2010 to a family of farmers, she was a bright, friendly, and active student, always helping her parents with chores and excelling in her studies. Her life, however, took a drastic turn during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
At 11 years old, Reachny’s schooling moved online due to the pandemic. Her parents, recognizing the importance of her education, saved diligently to buy her a smartphone for her studies. This newfound access to the digital world brought both excitement and unforeseen dangers. In her free time, Reachny created a Facebook account and began using Messenger and Telegram to connect with friends. She was thrilled to have many online friends, including some she did not know personally.
By early 2023, Reachny befriended a person named Sa Sa on Facebook. Over three months, their online relationship grew, and Sa Sa requested photos and videos from Reachny. Trusting him, Reachny sent some child sexual abuse materials like videos. However, when she refused to send more, Sa Sa threatened to post the videos online. Frightened, Reachny blocked him on Facebook, but it was too late. Sa Sa shared her videos in public telegram groups, and her worst fears came true.
The videos spread rapidly, reaching her friends, teachers, and eventually her parents. Humiliated and blamed by her family, Reachny became isolated and depressed. She stopped going to school, spending her days hiding in her room, consumed by fear and self-blame. Her cheerful disposition faded as she struggled with the shame and pressure from her family.
In October 2023, Reachny’s teacher suggested her parents seek help from APLE, an organization dedicated to protecting children from exploitation. Using the Pisey Chatbot, they reported the case. APLE’s hotline team acted swiftly, working with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to take down the videos. APLE’s victim support team, along with district social workers and local authorities, conducted a thorough risk and needs assessment.
Reachny was referred to A21 Foundation for emotional and social support after moving to Siem Reap. APLE and Hagar International provided her and her parents with legal counseling and services. Thanks to these joint efforts, two young offenders were held accountable for their crime and charged under Article 42 of Law on Suppression of Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation 2008 for sharing her videos and making threats.
With three months of intensive emotional counseling, social support, and legal guidance, Reachny began to heal. Her family participated in legal proceedings with confidence, knowing they were supported and safe. Reachny gradually returned to her cheerful self, regaining her smile and laughter. She became more attentive in class, once again the friendly and active girl everyone knew and loved.
Reachny’s story is a powerful reminder of the vulnerabilities children face in the digital age and the transformative impact of timely intervention and support. By raising awareness, encouraging reporting, and supporting advocacy, we can ensure every child is safe from online exploitation. Organizations like APLE play a crucial role in providing the necessary resources and support for victims and their families.
Every child must be safe from exploitation. It must be stopped. If you come across any child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online, report it immediately. Your actions can protect and save lives. Please report to APLE Cambodia or call (+855) 092 311 511.
Through collective efforts and support, we can create a safer, brighter future for all children
