What Happened During the Operation Against Online Gambling in Hayam Wuruk: Investigation Expands to Higher Levels
What Happened During the operation at Hayam Wuruk, Jakarta Barat, on Thursday (7/5/2026), saw Bareskrim Polri’s Direktorat Tindak Pidana Umum (Dirtipidum) target a major online gambling hub. The raid resulted in the arrest of 321 individuals, including key figures involved in coordinating illegal betting activities. This marked a significant step in addressing the growing issue of unregulated gambling in the area.
The Scope of the Investigation and Legal Actions
Brigjen Wira Satya Triputra, head of Dirtipidum Bareskrim Polri, emphasized that the investigation into the gambling operation is not limited to lower-level participants. “What Happened During the operation shows that we are not stopping at the grassroots level; we are now tracing the chain of command to uncover those in charge,” he explained. The operation was meticulously planned to dismantle the entire network of illegal gambling activities.
“What Happened During the raid highlights the complexity of the crime, as the perpetrators were not just local actors but also involved foreign nationals. This underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the issue,” added Wira, who was present during the operation.
Foreign Nationals Involved and Visa Irregularities
Brigjen Untung Widyatmoko, head of NCB Interpol Indonesia, revealed that the majority of the arrested individuals were foreign nationals (WNA) who had entered Indonesia on tourist visas. “What Happened During the operation demonstrates how some of these WNA overstayed their visa terms and operated without proper work permits,” he noted. The 320 WNA involved were primarily from Vietnam, with 228 individuals from that country, followed by 57 from China, 13 from Myanmar, 11 from Laos, and smaller numbers from Thailand and Cambodia.
“What Happened During the investigation indicates that the WNA were using their tourist status as a cover to engage in commercial activities. This is a common tactic to avoid scrutiny,” Untung said, highlighting the importance of immigration and foreign affairs cooperation in the case.
Tracking Financial Flows and Sponsor Networks
Following the initial arrests, Dirtipidum has intensified efforts to trace financial transactions linked to the operation. “What Happened During the raid revealed that the gambling activities were funded by sponsors with connections to international networks,” Wira explained. The investigation now includes monitoring the flow of money to identify those who provided financial backing for the illegal gambling center.
Authorities have also begun examining the identities of individuals who hired the WNA and facilitated the technical infrastructure for the betting operations. “What Happened During the operation has exposed a layered structure, where local coordinators relied on foreign expertise to expand their criminal activities,” said Wira, who outlined the next steps for the investigation.
Collaboration with Immigration and Foreign Affairs Agencies
The case has prompted a closer collaboration between Bareskrim Polri and immigration authorities to address the involvement of WNA. “What Happened During the raid has shown that visa regulations must be enforced strictly, especially in cases where individuals are engaged in commercial operations,” Untung remarked. The joint task force will focus on reviewing visa applications and ensuring that those who overstayed are held accountable.
Additionally, the Kementerian Luar Negeri (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) is being integrated into the investigation to monitor the legal status of foreign nationals involved. “What Happened During the operation highlights the need for a multi-agency approach, combining police, immigration, and foreign affairs efforts to dismantle the network,” Wira concluded, emphasizing the coordinated strategy to tackle the issue.
“What Happened During the operation not only targeted the immediate suspects but also revealed the broader systemic issues in how WNA are managed. This will guide future actions to prevent similar incidents,” added Wira, who expressed confidence in the ongoing investigation.
Public Impact and Long-Term Implications
The operation in Hayam Wuruk has had a noticeable impact on the local community, as it disrupted a well-established gambling network that had been operating for an extended period. “What Happened During this raid has sent a strong message to potential offenders that the authorities are committed to rooting out illegal gambling,” said a local official, who praised the police’s efficiency in targeting the operations.
With the investigation moving to higher levels, authorities expect to uncover more details about the financial backers and international connections of the network. “What Happened During the operation is just the beginning, as we now have the opportunity to address the root causes of these illegal activities,” Wira stated, highlighting the significance of the ongoing efforts. The case also sets a precedent for future investigations involving both local and foreign participants in criminal activities.
