Operation Wirawaspada 2026: 346 Foreign Nationals Caught by Immigration Officers
The Directorate General of Immigration has once again carried out Operation Wirawaspada simultaneously across all regions of Indonesia from 7 to 11 April 2026. This operation is a routine immigration supervision activity conducted simultaneously by all immigration work units to ensure compliance by foreign nationals (WNA) with applicable laws and regulations.
Based on the results of the operation, a total of 2,499 supervision activities have been conducted by intelligence and immigration enforcement officers throughout Indonesia. From these results, 346 foreign nationals have been apprehended, and further examinations are ongoing.
The majority of the supervisions, numbering 2,463 activities, were carried out using open methods. Meanwhile, the remaining 34 activities were conducted using covert supervision methods due to the high risks faced by the officers.
“Foreign nationals monitored were dominated by holders of visit stay permits, numbering 222 people, followed by limited stay permits at 112 people, and permanent stay permits at 7 people. In addition, there were 3 asylum seekers and 2 illegal immigrants who were also part of the supervision,” said the Director of Immigration Supervision and Enforcement, Yuldi Yusman.
He stated that the foreign nationals apprehended come from various countries, with the highest number from the People’s Republic of China at 183 people, followed by Pakistan with 21 people, Nigeria with 20 people, Japan with 13 people, and several other countries such as Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and India.
Yuldi explained that the violations found include the use of stay permits not in accordance with their purpose, suspected failure to report changes in immigration data, and indications of working without valid permission.
“There were 214 cases of misuse of stay permits, 48 cases of failure to report address and data changes, 31 cases of lacking valid documents, 24 overstay cases, 17 fictitious investors, and several other violations such as disturbing public order,” added Yuldi.
The Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, said that Operation Wirawaspada was carried out with a comprehensive and data-based approach to ensure effective supervision. Hendarsam also emphasised that strengthening supervision remains a priority amid efforts to improve the quality of immigration services.
“We continue to encourage improvements in the efficiency and ease of immigration services, but this does not mean there is tolerance for violations. Immigration continues to ensure that supervision is carried out proactively and responsively, with swift and precise actions in addressing every violation found,” he stated.
He added that the balance between services and supervision is key to maintaining national sovereignty while supporting a healthy investment climate and global mobility.
“We are committed to ensuring that every foreign national in Indonesian territory complies with applicable legal provisions. Supervision will continue to be strengthened as part of efforts to maintain order and security, as well as to support national development.”