Batam immigration officer investigated for extortion against foreigners
Riau Islands regional immigration office head Ujo Sutojo said the office has identified an employee with the initials JS, along with a third-party individual, AS, as suspects in the scheme.
“Any officers involved in the case will be penalized according to the disciplinary procedure,” Sutojo affirmed during a press conference on Sunday.
Upon an initial probe involving reviews of passengers’ arrival data and CCTV footage, investigators identified a suspected case involving a Myanmar national, identified as NAY.
During the incident, NAY was asked to remain for further inspection after failing to produce a return ticket during immigration checks upon arrival in Batam.
Investigators later observed that a third party had suddenly intervened and negotiated with on-duty officers. Subsequent questioning revealed indications they agreed upon a financial demand to be made to the foreign national.
The regional immigration office’s internal compliance unit head, Washington Napitupulu, explained that, in addition to NAY, investigators identified two other foreign nationals allegedly involved in the extortion case, each of whom was initially asked to pay 100 Singapore dollars.
However, the identities of the two individuals have yet to be established.
“Based on the third party’s confession … the three foreigners were initially asked to pay S$100 each. Following negotiations, the amount was settled at S$250 for all three,” Napitupulu stated.
He affirmed that the probe against officers and the third party involved will be continued, adding that internal monitoring and employee discipline will be strengthened to ensure optimal immigration services and prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
Related news: Bali Immigration thwarts escape attempt of British Interpol fugitive
Related news: Indonesia keeps watch on foreigners in Bali despite WFA policy
Related news: Bali authorities detain three foreign nationals over porn video case
Translator: Amandine Nadja, Nabil Ihsan