Major Police Raid Targets Illegal Gambling Network in Jakarta
Indonesian authorities have arrested more than 300 foreign nationals during a large-scale operation against an alleged online gambling syndicate in Jakarta.
Police said the suspects were detained during raids at a commercial building believed to be operating dozens of illegal gambling websites aimed at users outside Indonesia. Officials described the action as one of the country’s biggest crackdowns on digital betting networks in recent years.
Investigators revealed that 321 people were taken into custody, with most of the suspects coming from Vietnam and China. Authorities also confirmed arrests involving nationals from Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
Authorities Say Operation Was Highly Organized
According to Indonesian police officials, the online gambling group had reportedly been active for around two months before the raid took place.
Investigators stated that workers inside the operation were assigned specialized roles, including customer service, telemarketing, and financial management. Authorities believe the syndicate managed more than 70 gambling-related websites from the Jakarta location.
Police also confiscated electronic devices, passports, mobile phones, and other digital evidence during the operation as part of the ongoing investigation.
Officials are now attempting to identify the main organizers and financial backers behind the illegal gambling network.
Indonesia Intensifies Crackdown on International Cybercrime
Online gambling is banned in Indonesia, and authorities have recently increased enforcement efforts against international cybercrime and illegal betting activities.
Law enforcement agencies say several foreign criminal networks have shifted operations into Southeast Asia, prompting regional governments to strengthen cooperation and launch coordinated raids.
Many of the detained individuals were reportedly using short-term visas, while some were suspected of overstaying their permits. Indonesian authorities indicated that criminal charges and immigration violations are both being investigated.
The suspects could face lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines under Indonesian law if convicted.
