Police Uncover Counterfeit STNK Syndicate in Pasuruan: How to Verify Genuine Documents
SURABAYA — Police have uncovered a syndicate producing counterfeit vehicle registration documents (STNK) in Pasuruan, East Java.
The syndicate was dismantled by the Surabaya Metropolitan Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit (Satreskrim) for allegedly producing illegal vehicle documents used to facilitate motorcycle and car sales transactions.
Surabaya Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Unit Chief AKBP Edy Herwiyanto revealed that the vehicle document forgery case was exposed following a public report.
“After receiving the report, officers immediately began a series of investigations and in-depth inquiries until the perpetrators were successfully identified,” Edy said on Thursday, 28 May 2026.
Investigations revealed that the counterfeit STNKs were produced in a house in Pasuruan using simple equipment such as printers, stamps, cutting tools, and stationery.
Perpetrators also used a combination of digital printing and manual techniques to make the documents appear genuine.
Meanwhile, raw materials for the documents were obtained from other members of the syndicate.
The case serves as a reminder for the public to be more vigilant when purchasing second-hand vehicles or verifying vehicle document authenticity to avoid becoming victims of fraud.
STNK, or Vehicle Registration Certificate, is proof of vehicle registration and validation based on registered identity and ownership.
- Match STNK data with the vehicle’s physical details
Check the vehicle type, brand, colour, engine capacity, and number plate against the actual vehicle.
- Verify STNK signatures and stamps
Ensure signatures and stamps on the STNK are clear and not suspicious.
- Check vehicle chassis number
The chassis number on the vehicle must match the data in the BPKB and STNK. It is usually located on the vehicle’s body.
- Verify engine number
The engine number must correspond with that stated in the BPKB and STNK. Its location varies by vehicle brand.
- Check with Samsat
To confirm document authenticity, vehicle owners can take the vehicle directly to Samsat for official verification.