Missing Polish historian found in weakened state in Phnom Penh

2026-02-11 - 07:26

PHNOM PENH — A Polish historian who went missing in Cambodia has been found in Phnom Penh in a severely weakened condition after allegedly being robbed, according to his family. Adam Janusz Mielcarek, 59, lost contact with relatives on 21 January after travelling from Siem Reap to the Cambodian capital. His disappearance prompted appeals from his family and the involvement of diplomatic missions and international law enforcement agencies. Telewizja Polska reported on 4 February that Mielcarek’s family had issued a desperate call for help after he vanished without trace. Mobile phone data cited by relatives showed his phone was located in central Phnom Penh before becoming inactive days later. Khmer Times reported on 11 February that Mielcarek had been found in a critical condition. His sister, Kamila Rind, said he was discovered after local residents recognised him from social media posts and contacted the family. “He has been found and is in a very bad state. He was robbed. Somebody took everything, including his documents, telephone, shoes, and even glasses,” she said. “Some locals saw his photo on social media and recognised him at a park, so they contacted us. He has lost 15 kg and is malnourished. We could barely recognise him. He is hospitalised now.” Rind said her brother is suffering from amnesia and cannot recall the events leading to his disappearance. Mobile phone records previously showed his device was tracked to central Phnom Penh on 22 January before logging its final signal on 25 January. The case drew attention from Polish diplomatic services, including the embassy in Bangkok, which covers Cambodia, as well as the Polish consul in Phnom Penh. Interpol and British police were also informed during the search. Authorities have urged anyone with information about his movements during the period he was missing to assist with the investigation.