Indonesian Soldier Suspected of Recruitment Fraud Flees with Rp18 Million

Ambon, VIVA – An Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldier, identified by the initials Sertu LM, is being hunted following allegations of involvement in a recruitment brokerage scam.

Sertu LM, who was stationed at the Puskodalopsdam XV/Pattimura, allegedly promised to guarantee the passing of a recruitment candidate. In connection with this case, a resident of Saumlaki, identified as LR, claims to have suffered losses amounting to Rp18.35 million.

The Head of Information for Kodam XV/Pattimura, Letkol Inf Adi Swastika, stated that his office has coordinated with the unit where Sertu LM was stationed. The handling of the case has also been handed over to the Military Police.

“It is true that the individual in question is a member of Puskodalops_dam XV/Pattimura. We have coordinated with his unit commander, and it is known that the member has been absent without permission (THTI) for more than three days, even approximately two weeks, and has been reported to the Pomdam (Military Police) side,” he said on Tuesday, 1 September 2026.

The alleged brokerage practice reportedly occurred while Sertu LM was absent without permission from his unit. Currently, the unit is still searching for his whereabouts to support the legal process.

“The commander of the unit is not remaining idle regarding this issue. The first step taken is to conduct searches among his close associates to determine his whereabouts,” he added.

The case came to light after LR admitted to handing over money in stages to Sertu LM, totalling Rp18.35 million. The money was provided because Sertu LM allegedly promised that LR’s child, identified as RR, would pass the TNI recruitment selection process.

However, RR ultimately failed the selection process. LR claims to possess transfer evidence of the funds given to Sertu LM.

LR also plans to bring the matter to the Military Police of Kodam XV/Pattimura to seek clarity and a resolution in accordance with legal provisions.

The Head of Information for Kodam XV/Pattimuna emphasised that brokerage practices in the recruitment process are issues that must be handled according to the legal provisions and mechanisms applicable within the TNI environment.

Kodam XV/Pattimuna also respects the ongoing legal process and will take action based on the results of the investigation into the rogue soldier.