Before a crackdown on forced prostitution began, observers say prostitutes used to literally drag prospective customers from their motorbikes or grope men where they stood. Now, they stand inside half-closed doorways, calling out or blowing kisses. Many work without their brothel owners, who have since gone to jail. And they live in fear of being arrested. Doors slam shut as police pass.
Sex workers crouch silently inside.
But the problem of child prostitution remains here. A day after two girls forced into sexual slavery were taken away to a shelter to begin a new life, new faces appeared. Once inside, Sroh speaks submissively and silently. In Tuol Kok, talking too much means trouble. While Sroh tells her story, another prostitute arrives from the back.