A Shocking Revelation: Umrah Travel Trafficking Ring Busted by Police
In a surprising turn of events, the Soekarno-Hatta (Soetta) Airport Police recently made a breakthrough in uncovering a human trafficking ring that exploited Umrah pilgrimages as a front for their illicit activities. The arrests of seven individuals linked to this sophisticated operation shed light on the disturbing reality of human trafficking in the guise of religious travel.
During a press conference held on Thursday, Senior Commissioner Ronald Sipayung, Chief of the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Police, disclosed the intricate web of deceit woven by the perpetrators. The suspects, known by their initials RF, S, and Z, played key roles in luring unsuspecting victims under the guise of organizing fake Umrah trips. On the other hand, four other individuals, identified as MF, IY, SP, and MRL, posed as recruiters, further facilitating the trafficking scheme.
The investigation into this harrowing case unfolded between February 6 and 22, 2025, when the Criminal Investigation Unit thwarted the attempts of 127 individuals to leave the country under false pretenses. These individuals, seeking opportunities abroad in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, were unknowingly falling prey to the manipulative tactics of the traffickers.
As the details of the operation emerged, it became apparent that the victims were slated for destinations such as Greece, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand, under the false promise of lucrative salaries ranging from Rp10 million to Rp16 million. The stark reality of their situation underscored the gravity of the crime committed by those involved in orchestrating this human trafficking ring.
Commissioner Handari Mono, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit at Soetta Airport Police, shed further light on the matter, revealing that 10 suspects have been identified in connection with the case. However, three individuals with the initials H, S, and A are currently evading capture and have been placed on the wanted list. The pursuit of these fugitives underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement to bring all perpetrators to justice.
The legal ramifications faced by the suspects are severe, with charges under Article 83 Jo. Article 68 and/or Article 81 Jo. Article 69 of Law of the Republic of Indonesia No. 18 of 2017 concerning the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, and/or Article 4 of Law No. 21 of 2007 concerning the Eradication of Criminal Acts of Human Trafficking. Mono emphasized that under Article 4 of the latter law, the suspects could face a maximum of 15 years imprisonment and a fine of up to Rp600 million, underscoring the gravity of their offenses.
As the investigation unfolds and the pursuit of the remaining suspects continues, the veil of deception surrounding the Umrah travel trafficking ring is slowly being lifted. The concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies have not only disrupted the nefarious activities of the traffickers but also highlighted the urgent need for greater vigilance and enforcement against such exploitative practices. The pursuit of justice for the victims and the relentless pursuit of the fugitives serve as a stark reminder of the dark realities that lurk beneath the surface of seemingly innocuous activities.
