Indonesia Immigration Repatriates Two Tanzanian After a Year in Detention

MAKASSAR, RAKYAT NEWS — Two Tanzanian women have returned home with dignity after a year of detention in Indonesia, following a successful assisted repatriation facilitated by the Makassar Immigration Detention Center (Rudenim Makassar) and United Nations agencies.

The repatriation on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, was conducted under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program, a humanitarian initiative that helps migrants and refugees return to their countries of origin safely and voluntarily, rather than through forced deportation.

The individuals, identified only by the initials JJ and LL, initially entered Indonesia as irregular migrants. After a year of monitoring and assessment, their status was officially recognized as refugees, making them eligible for the UN-supported AVR program. This program, run by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), provides critical support with travel documents, logistics, and coordination.

The journey began at the Makassar detention center, where officials finalized all travel arrangements. Immigration officers then escorted JJ and LL to Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport for their flight to Jakarta, and ensured a smooth and respectful transition through security and boarding for their final departure to Tanzania from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Rudy Prasetyo, Head of the Makassar Immigration Detention Center, stressed the department’s dual commitment to law enforcement and human rights.

“Our duty does not end at detention; it extends to upholding the dignity of every individual in our care,” Prasetyo stated. “This collaborative effort with IOM and UNHCR has provided these women with a safe, voluntary pathway home and the hope for a new beginning.”

The operation underscores the growing collaboration between national immigration authorities and international bodies in managing complex global migration issues humanely. The Makassar center affirmed its commitment to continuing this approach, aiming to handle all cases with professionalism and a respect for fundamental human rights.
(Uki Ruknuddin)