Indonesia arrests 321 foreigners in major Jakarta online gambling raid

Indonesian police have arrested 321 foreign nationals in a large-scale raid on an alleged online gambling operation in Jakarta, marking one of the country’s most significant crackdowns on illegal digital betting networks.

As reported by local media, the arrests took place at a commercial building near the capital’s Chinatown district, which investigators described as a hub managing more than 70 online gambling websites targeting players outside Indonesia. Authorities believe the group operated at least 75 betting platforms.

According to Wira Satya Triputra, Director of General Crimes with the Indonesian National Police, those detained include 228 Vietnamese nationals and 57 Chinese citizens, along with individuals from Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia. Police said 275 of those detained have been formally named as suspects, while others remain under questioning.

Triputra told reporters that suspects were caught in the act and that the operation appeared highly structured, with staff assigned to roles including customer service, telemarketing and financial administration. Investigators estimate the network had been operating for approximately two months.

Police also uncovered immigration violations, as many suspects reportedly entered Indonesia on short-term visitor visas and overstayed while working at the site. In addition to gambling charges, authorities are investigating potential money laundering offenses. 

Officers seized cash in multiple currencies, computers, mobile phones, passports and other equipment believed to have been used to manage the gambling platforms. Those charged could face up to nine years’ imprisonment and fines of RP 2bn (US$114,924).

Authorities said they have observed signs that operators previously based in Myanmar and Cambodia may be relocating operations following enforcement efforts in those jurisdictions. Further arrests linked to international networks are possible as the investigation continues.