Indonesian police detain ministry worker over online gambling

Neha Soni November 4, 2024

SiGMA news

The Indonesian Police Force has arrested an employee of the Communications and Digital Ministry for alleged online gambling. The National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency, the central executive agency part of the Indonesian Police Force has detained the ministry employee amid allegations of his involvement in online gambling. Without disclosing further details regarding the arrest, National Police spokesman Brig. Gen. Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko said that the investigation was ongoing. “An employee of the communications ministry is still being examined to deepen the investigation.” The Communications and Digital Ministry has been actively working with the police to uncover the incident. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said that she and the ministry are working with the authorities regarding the incident’s investigation. Hafid, who was appointed to the recently renamed Communication and Digital Affairs Ministry last month, has made it clear that her staff will completely comply with the investigation and cooperate if any further assistance is required. She said the ministry will be “firm and serious on the issue of all criminal offenses” and that they will ensure people are safe in the digital space. “It is our commitment according to the President’s direction,” Hafid said.

President’s direction

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed full commitment to putting an end to online gambling, arguing it was not aligned with the country’s values. He has required law enforcement officials to be strict, use strong evidence and prove their intelligence when taking care of the “serious threat” of illegal gambling.

In June, Indonesia had shut over 2 million websites offering illegal online gambling services. Online gambling has been a prevalent problem in countries across the world and has been categorised as an epidemic by Indonesia.

In related news, the Jakarta Police has detained 11 officials of the Communication and Digitalisation Ministry during a recent crackdown. The officials’ identity has not been disclosed. They have allegedly facilitated online gambling operators by continuing to operate their website despite the presidential instruction for immediate closure of all gambling apps and websites.