Immigration Office Uncovers Human Trafficking Scheme Using 'Mail-Order Bride' Modus, Victims Promised Rp70 Million

The Class I Non-TPI Depok Immigration Office has revealed an alleged practice of human trafficking (TPPO) using the modus of mail-order brides or marriages with foreign nationals. A married couple has been arrested.

Head of the Depok Immigration Office, Irvan Triansyah, said the pair were arrested on Monday (24/8/2026). The suspicion was detected when officers conducted an interview with a passport applicant.

“Officers found inconsistencies in the statements, which were then followed up through further investigation by the Immigration Intelligence and Enforcement Section,” Irvan said in his statement on Tuesday (25/8).

“From the initial investigation, indications were found that the applicant was allegedly going to be sent to China under the modus of ‘marriage’,” he added.

Irvan said the suspicion pointed to a recruitment pattern through marriage offers that could potentially be linked to human trafficking. The victim was promised Rp70 million.

“The alleged perpetrators are two people, a husband and wife. They are suspected of seeking prospective mail-order brides, with compensation from parties in China,” he explained.

“So, based on the information obtained by officers so far, the victim was promised a dowry of Rp70 million by the perpetrators,” he added.

Following the findings, the Depok Immigration Office then coordinated with the Depok Metro Police for further examination and handling in accordance with applicable legal provisions.

“For further handling and investigation, we have coordinated and handed over the suspected perpetrators and victim to the Depok Police,” he concluded.