OJK Detects Investment Scam in Purwokerto, Here's the Modus Operandi
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has acted swiftly to follow up on a suspected investment fraud case in the Purwokerto area, Central Java. The OJK has urged victims to report the matter immediately to the OJK Purwokerto Office or through the OJK Consumer Contact at (021) 157, WhatsApp 081157157157, and the OJK Consumer Protection Portal (APPK) application at https://kontak157.ojk.go.id.
The suspected investment fraud case in Purwokerto recently came to light after several parties reported being victimised by a former employee of Bank Mandiri Taspen (Mantap) Purwokerto Branch Office, revealed Agus Firmansyah, Head of the Integrated Financial Services Sector Surveillance and Policy Department, in a written statement on Thursday (4/6/2026).
On Thursday, the consumer protection division of the OJK also summoned the Directors of Bank Mantap to seek clarification regarding the case, given that many victims were indicated to have used loan or credit funds from Bank Mantap for the investment. The OJK has also asked Bank Mantap’s Directors to conduct further investigation, particularly regarding the number of customers who may have fallen victim to the investment fraud, including the value of losses, and requested that Bank Mantap assist in supporting the victims.
The OJK is also examining the veracity of information suggesting that victims of the investment scam in Purwokerto are not solely Bank Mantap customers, but also several customers from other banks in Purwokerto. To promptly assist the fraud victims, the OJK will also soon open a Complaint Post at the OJK Purwokerto Office so that affected members of the public can report their cases. The OJK has also communicated with the Police to ensure swift enforcement action against this case.
Responding to the prevalence of fraudulent investment schemes targeting the public, the OJK proactively urges the public to be more cautious and not to be easily tempted by the promised returns. Before deciding to invest, the public must apply the 2L principle, namely: Legal – ensure the company or entity offering the investment has an official licence from the OJK or the relevant authorised authority; Logical – evaluate the level of return (profit) offered. Be wary of offers that promise very high fixed returns in a short time without risk. The public can also consult and request explanations regarding investment products through OJK communication channels via Kontak 157 or WhatsApp 081157157157, or visit the nearest OJK Office.