BATAM, RAKYAT NEWS – In a significant move to combat human trafficking, Batam Immigration has delayed the departure of 767 individuals suspected of attempting to leave Indonesia as illegal migrant workers (PMI or TKI) in November 2024.

This action is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the prevention of human trafficking and protect vulnerable citizens from exploitation. The operation, conducted by the Immigration Office at Batam, a key port city in the Riau Archipelago, aims to crack down on illegal labor trafficking networks.

Hajar Aswad, the head of Batam Immigration, confirmed that the delayed departures occurred at both the international port and airport. The agency’s vigilant monitoring at these entry and exit points forms a critical part of Indonesia’s strategy to curb human trafficking. “We have prevented the departure of 767 individuals, and in addition, we have rejected or postponed 12 passport applications in November alone,” Hajar said, highlighting the growing concern over illegal labor migration.

The decision to delay these departures follows a thorough review process aimed at identifying potential victims of human trafficking or individuals attempting to leave the country under false pretenses. Hajar emphasized that this initiative is essential to safeguard Indonesian citizens from becoming victims of exploitative work conditions abroad. “This is a form of protection for the public,” he stated.

Most of the individuals involved in this case were reportedly from East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) and various provinces on the island of Java. These areas are known to have a high number of people seeking overseas employment, making them vulnerable to trafficking networks. Hajar stressed the importance of preventing these individuals from falling into illegal labor channels that often lead to severe exploitation.