Phnom Penh, 17 May 2025 — Authorities are investigating after a severely malnourished woman was found barely alive in an overgrown vacant lot in Chroy Changvar district.

At around 11:00 a.m., police were alerted to an unconscious woman near Keng Road and Win Win Boulevard. First responders confirmed she was still breathing and rushed her to Calmette Hospital, where she was stabilised. Doctors report she is unable to speak for long and will need extended care.

Locals reported seeing the woman hours earlier but assumed she was resting and did not approach. Authorities found no ID or belongings with her, and nearby CCTV footage has provided no clues about how she ended up there.

Police are appealing for help identifying her, while social workers and officials are offering post-recovery support. The incident has reignited calls for stronger protections for Phnom Penh’s homeless and mentally ill, who often go unnoticed until crisis strikes.