Immigration probes human trafficking elements involving 16 Uzbek nationals

The Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration for East Nusa Tenggara is investigating the possible involvement of human trafficking crimes concerning 16 foreign nationals from Uzbekistan who were stranded in Alor Regency. “We are not only focusing on suspected immigration violations, but also delving into the possibility of elements of the criminal act of human trafficking,” said Head of the East Nusa Tenggara Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration, Saroha Manulang, in Kupang on Friday. He stated this in relation to the examination results of the 16 Uzbek nationals who were found by fishermen on the coast of Air Panas Village, Pantar District, Alor Regency, on 3 July 2026. He said the investigation is being conducted in an integrated manner together with the police to ascertain whether there are criminal elements in the case, in addition to suspected violations of immigration regulations. According to him, if the foreign nationals are proven to have violated immigration rules, they will be subject to immigration administrative actions in accordance with applicable provisions. After all legal processes, both criminal and immigration, are completed, the foreign nationals will be deported to their country of origin. He also urged the public to play an active role in helping to monitor the presence and activities of foreign nationals by reporting suspicious matters to the authorities or through the foreigner supervision application. According to Saroha, public participation is a crucial factor in supporting the effectiveness of immigration supervision while maintaining security and order in the surrounding environment.