East Java Police Investigate CPNS Scam Involving Military Personnel, Losses Estimated at IDR 20 Billion

East Java Police have begun investigating a report of fraud involving a civil servant (CPNS) recruitment programme that allegedly involves active military personnel, with total losses estimated at IDR 20 billion. The Head of Public Relations for East Java Police, Commissioner Jules Abraham Abast, confirmed that the report was received through the Integrated Police Service Centre on Monday, 10 August. He stated that the case would be processed according to legal procedures and that investigators would examine all evidence and information provided by the complainants. Police also urged the public to be wary of any party promising guaranteed graduation, placement, or special entry routes into government institutions in exchange for money.

The case emerged after several individuals who had failed the official CPNS selection in 2024-2025 were approached by active military personnel. These individuals allegedly introduced the victims to a man with the initials OP, the owner of a training institution in Sidoarjo, who promised placement in various government agencies through a ‘follow-up’ recruitment path. Victims were asked to pay between IDR 300 million and IDR 700 million, depending on the institution promised. After payment, victims underwent a series of academic, psychological, and medical tests that appeared official, complete with decision letters and test schedules bearing the letterheads of government institutions. All documents were later found to be falsified.

One victim, a 27-year-old from Sidoarjo, recounted that her father, an active military member, was approached by a colleague offering the scheme. She initially paid IDR 525 million, which later increased to IDR 625 million under the pretext of placement fees. She described undergoing psychological tests at a shop in Surabaya and medical tests at a government hospital, all of which appeared legitimate with official ministry branding. The victims’ lawyer stated that the initial report involved five victims with losses of IDR 3.5 billion, but the total number of victims is believed to exceed 20, with losses surpassing IDR 20 billion. Some victims also reported receiving intimidation from military personnel warning them not to report the case to the police.