Banyuwangi Village Head Defrauds Victim of Rp 150 Million with Promise of Medical Scholarships in China

The hopes of a housewife in Malang, identified by the initials IYW, to see her son, MRR, pursue medical studies abroad have been shattered. She was defrauded by a village head from Banyuwangi, identified by the initials AS (34), who promised medical scholarships in China.

The victim suffered significant financial losses, having deposited various requested amounts between 25 June 2025 and 28 July 2025 under the pretext of securing her son’s admission to a Chinese medical university.

“It is true; because of the fraud case, the individual has been named a suspect and has been detained,” said the Head of Criminal Investigation at Malang Kota City Police, Kompol Rahmad Aji Prabowo, as reported on Monday (31/8/2026).

The incident began when IYW received information regarding a scholarship programme titled ‘Kuliah Hebat’ (Great Studies) from a teacher at a state high school in Malang. Driven by the desire to provide the best education for her son, MRR subsequently contacted the number listed on the brochure.

During telephone conversations, the suspect, AS, claimed to be a representative of PT Indo Universia Multinasional and lured the victim with promises of a full scholarship at Hainan Medical University. The promise allegedly covered all tuition fees, accommodation, and monthly allowances.

“The suspect’s modus operandi was to offer medical scholarships in China, and the victim was asked to pay various amounts,” explained Aji.

Persuaded by these claims, the victim agreed to pay an administration package totalling Rp 150 million in instalments, starting with a down payment of Rp 4 million on 25 June 2025, followed by a final payment of Rp 100 million in late July 2025 into the account of PT Indo Universia. The suspect also requested an additional Rp 22.5 million for visa processing and travel tickets for accompanying family members.