Interpol Assists in Uncovering International Scamming Network Case in Surabaya
The NCB-Interpol Indonesia Secretariat has intervened to assist in the uncovering of international scamming cases operating in Surabaya. The case involves an international syndicate engaged in kidnapping, Trafficking in Persons (TIP), and online fraud (scamming).
The Head of the Justice and Legal Affairs Section of the NCB Interpol Indonesia Secretariat, Commissioner Ricky Purnama, explained that the assistance is provided to ensure that the legal process against dozens of foreign nationals arrested by the Surabaya Metropolitan Police proceeds in accordance with national legal procedures and international conventions.
“The NCB Interpol Indonesia Secretariat is providing assistance in handling the case to ensure that the process for cases involving foreign nationals runs smoothly. We guarantee that all procedures for detention, seizure, and documentation of the suspects meet national legal standards as well as international conventions,” said Commissioner Ricky in his statement on Friday (8/5/2026).
44 Suspects
It is known that the uncovering operation successfully secured a total of 44 suspects. The majority are foreign nationals from China, Taiwan, and Japan.
“The composition of the suspects is dominated by foreign nationals, namely 30 Chinese nationals, 7 Taiwanese nationals, 4 Japanese nationals, assisted by 3 Indonesian citizens. The syndicate was dismantled from four secret locations scattered across Surabaya and Surakarta, Central Java,” Ricky explained.
Based on further investigation, Ricky continued, the syndicate is highly organised. They use an online account named ‘Kurokawa’ to lure victims.
“They exploit the modus operandi of an online account named ‘Kurokawa’ to deceive victims with offers of free holidays to Vietnam and Cambodia, complete with flight tickets,” he revealed.
“However, that promise was merely a cover to bring victims to kidnapping locations in Indonesia to be exploited as cross-border scamming operators,” Ricky added.
Upon arrival in Indonesia, the victims were instead held captive and forced to work as cross-border scamming operators. Their passports and communication devices were confiscated so they could not seek help.
“The suspects carried out multi-layered intimidation. Victims were threatened with torture or even having their organs sold if they dared to resist or request to return to their home countries,” he stated.
During the raid, police also secured large-scale cyber evidence. Some notable items include special scamming booths lined with soundproof foam to prevent their activities from being heard outside.
“Dozens of smartphones, iPads, laptops, and even Tokyo police uniforms suspected to be used for perpetrating fraud against other nationals were found,” Ricky added.
For their actions, the suspects are now charged with multiple articles, including the Electronic Information and Transactions Law and the Law on Eradicating Trafficking in Persons. The maximum penalty is 15 years in prison.
“This strong enforcement collaboration between regional units and the NCB Interpol Indonesia Secretariat is undeniable proof that the Indonesian National Police institution is constantly evolving and present to protect the public,” he concluded.