BTS Module Theft Syndicate Causes Rp 60 Billion Loss, Disrupts Signals in Jakarta and West Java

The Criminal Investigation Unit of the Indonesian National Police (Bareskrim Polri) has uncovered a syndicate responsible for stealing Base Transceiver Station (BTS) modules, resulting in widespread signal loss for thousands of customers in Jakarta, Banten, and West Java. The thefts caused material losses estimated at Rp 60 billion.

‘The immeasurable material loss was also felt by the public due to the disruption of communication access, which hampered business and daily activities,’ said Senior Commissioner Teuku Arsya Khadafi.

Authorities have seized 38 BTS modules of various types, along with mobile phones, identity cards, and operational vehicles. The investigation revealed that the perpetrators exploited their knowledge and access as former installation technicians and vendor employees. They used a black Toyota Avanza to carry out the thefts, targeting 15 BTS modules in five different locations in the Banten region alone.

Police have named several key suspects, including AN and ASA, who acted as the executors, and RR, a former technician who breached the Kalisari area in East Jakarta. Another suspect, GA, acted as the receiver of the stolen goods. The syndicate is believed to be controlled by an international network, with the stolen modules being shipped abroad under the direction of a foreign national, Jason Zhang, who is suspected to be based in Bangkok, Thailand.

Authorities are continuing to hunt for other fugitives, including local collectors in the Karawang and Lebak areas, to sever the black-market chain of telecommunications infrastructure theft. The suspects face multiple charges under the Criminal Code for aggravated theft and fencing.