Indonesia’s Recent Deportation: The Crackdown on Cyber-Crime in the Philippines
In a significant move against cyber-crime, the Philippine government has deported 69 Indonesian citizens found to be involved in online gambling and scams operating within the nation. This mass deportation marks a critical step in addressing the complex issues surrounding illegal online gambling and its repercussions on foreign workers.
The Scale of the Operation
The deportation process, scheduled over October 22 and 23, 2024, will see the repatriation of these individuals in phases, arriving at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Tangerang. Inspector General Khrisna Murti, the Head of the International Relations Division (Divhubinter) of the Indonesian National Police, confirmed that these individuals would be returning with specific deportation statuses, as they were apprehended during a coordinated crackdown in the Philippines.
The operation that led to the arrests was undertaken by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) at the Tourist Garden Hotel, located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu Province, with assistance from the Indonesian National Police and the Indonesian Embassy in Manila.
Conditions of the Captured Workers
Reports indicate that many of these citizens were not only involved in illicit activities but were also subject to deplorable working conditions. They were allegedly held captive at their workplaces with their passports confiscated, all under duress associated with failing to meet job targets. Inspector Khrisna revealed that these workers were lured by promises of substantial salaries—up to 70,000 pesos (approximately Rp21 million) per month—only to be ensnared in a web of deception and exploitation.
Broader Implications of the Crackdown
This deportation aligns with a government policy recently instituted under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who, during his State of the Nation Address in July 2024, announced an immediate ban on Philippines Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). The president pointed to the necessity of ceasing these operations as a measure to mitigate the social issues arising from the online gambling industry, particularly its effect on foreign nationals employed in this sector, many of whom are Indonesian.
Khrisna noted that this crackdown on illegal gambling has impacted over 4,179 Indonesian citizens working in the industry, either legally or otherwise. The broad reach of this initiative reflects a heightened focus on safe and legal employment for foreign workers in the Philippines.
Collaborative Enforcement Efforts
The Indonesian National Police’s Divhubinter played an integral role in this operation. They actively engaged in the identification and assistance of the repatriated individuals, collaborating closely with the PNP (Philippines National Police) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). This cooperation underscores the importance of diplomatic relations in addressing cross-border crime and protecting citizens abroad.
Additionally, efforts were made to collect biometric data and verify the identities of the victims, ensuring accurate records for those returning to Indonesia. This thorough process demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of these individuals during what has been a distressing experience.
Details of the Repatriation
The first phase of repatriation included 35 Indonesian citizens, with another 32 awaiting their return. Meanwhile, two individuals remain entangled in the Philippine legal system. Repatriation flights have been organized to accommodate their return, with several flights scheduled from Manila, including flights on Scoot and Cebu Pacific, arriving at various Indonesian airports on October 22 and 23.
A Cautionary Tale
This episode serves as a cautionary tale about the darker sides of overseas employment, especially in industries like online gambling and cyber-scamming where the potential for exploitation is high. The Indonesian government, alongside its counterparts, must continue to address these issues head-on, ensuring that workers are protected and informed about the risks of such employment opportunities abroad.
Conclusion
As these Indonesian citizens embark on their journey home, the implications of this significant deportation resonate more broadly. It highlights the urgent need for international cooperation in facing cyber-crime and the imperative to protect vulnerable workers who may fall prey to deceptive practices overseas. The Philippine government’s decisive action signals a recognition of these challenges and a commitment to reforming the industry to foster safer working environments for all.
