In a disturbing discovery, a severely malnourished woman was found alive in an overgrown vacant lot in Phnom Penh’s Chroy Changvar district on 17 May 2025. The woman, believed to be in her late 30s or early 40s, was spotted by residents around 11:00 a.m. near Keng Road and Win Win Boulevard, prompting a swift response from police and emergency personnel.

According to witnesses, the woman had been seen as early as 5:30 a.m., but many assumed she was sleeping. It wasn’t until later in the morning, when someone realized she was unresponsive, that help was called. Upon arrival, responders confirmed she was still alive but in critical condition, displaying severe signs of starvation and dehydration.

She was immediately transported to Calmette Hospital, where doctors managed to stabilize her. Though she is conscious, medical staff report that she is extremely weak and currently unable to speak for extended periods. Her long-term prognosis remains uncertain, and she will likely face a lengthy recovery process.

Authorities have not yet identified the woman, as no identification or personal belongings were found at the scene. District police chief Kim Phann stated that ongoing reviews of local CCTV footage have yet to reveal how she came to be in the lot. Police are now appealing to the public for any information that could help identify her or trace her recent whereabouts.

The incident has drawn the attention of local charities, which have offered support following her hospital discharge. Officials have also announced increased patrols of vacant lots and construction sites, which are often used as temporary shelter by the city’s most vulnerable residents.

The case has reignited calls from advocacy groups for stronger protections for Phnom Penh’s homeless population and those with mental health challenges. Many argue that without proactive support systems, such individuals continue to go unnoticed until emergencies like this one arise.