Police Arrest Five Debt Collectors for Forcibly Repossessing Vehicles from Residents in Bogor

Police have arrested five debt collectors in Ciawi subdistrict, Bogor, West Java. They were apprehended following widespread activities that have been disturbing the public. “The operation targeted the entire length of Jalan Raya Mayjen HE Sukma, which is a busy public activity route, particularly in the Ciawi and South Bogor subdistrict areas,” said Ciawi Police Chief AKP Dede Lesmana to reporters on Wednesday (8/4/2026). He stated that the five “matel” (debt collectors) were arrested on Tuesday (7/4). The arrested matel are AS (45), ZL (45), MSH (30), SH (35), and FA (50). “The five individuals suspected of being debt collectors (matel) who frequently carry out unilateral motor vehicle repossessions against members of the public who have defaulted on credit payments,” he explained. He said that the police do not tolerate vehicle repossessions carried out forcibly and not in accordance with legal procedures. “Vehicle repossessions by leasing parties must comply with legal regulations and must not be done unilaterally on the road in a manner that disturbs the public,” he stated. “If criminal elements such as coercion or seizure are found, we will certainly take firm action,” he added. He urged the public not to be afraid if they become victims of illegal matel. Residents can immediately report to the police. “The process of repossessing credit vehicles must go through a lawful mechanism, such as the presence of a fiduciary certificate and a court decision or clear agreement with the debtor, and must not use intimidation tactics,” he concluded.