Tactics of Viral Man Who Repeatedly Stole from Luxury Jakarta Hotels

Police have revealed the tactics of a man with the initials NW (43) in his repeated thefts from five-star hotels in the Karet area of Central Jakarta. The perpetrator disguised himself as an employee to carry out his crimes.

“The perpetrator operated by disguising himself as an employee or event participant, wearing batik and a lanyard so as not to arouse suspicion,” said Jakarta Metropolitan Police Public Relations Chief Commissioner Budi Hermanto on Monday (16/2/2026).

As a result of the theft, the victim suffered losses including a black rucksack containing a mobile phone, a laptop, and Rp 300,000 in cash. At the time, the victim had left their belongings in a meeting room.

“The bag containing the phone was placed on a chair, whilst the laptop was under the table. When the victim returned, all the belongings were gone. The victim then reported the incident to the Tanah Abang Police Station,” he explained.

The police subsequently conducted an investigation into the incident. The perpetrator was arrested on Friday (13/2) in Matraman, East Jakarta.

Frequently Targeted Seminars at Hotels

Previously, Budi said the perpetrator frequently targeted seminars held at hotels. He also wore a lanyard and batik to deceive his victims.

“The perpetrator is suspected of targeting seminar or meeting events at star-rated hotels. He would enter with a smart appearance resembling an office worker, wearing batik and a lanyard, and carrying a bag, allowing him to freely take belongings left unattended by victims,” Budi told reporters.

Budi stated that NW was the sole perpetrator acting as the executor. In carrying out his crimes, he exploited the victims’ lack of vigilance.

“The perpetrator took advantage of the busy atmosphere at hotel events. By dressing like a participant or employee, he was able to freely enter meeting rooms and take belongings left unattended by victims,” he said.