A joint operation by Indonesian Maritime Security Agency and Military Intelligence has successfully disrupted a human smuggling ring in Batam.
In an operation codenamed ‘Nusantara VI/23’, the authorities intercepted a suspicious vessel off Dongas Coast, Sekupang, Batam, which was believed to be involved in the illegal activity.
The operation began with a tip-off, leading to the discovery and pursuit of an unnamed high-speed craft (HSC) suspected of carrying illegal migrant workers.
Despite the smugglers’ escape, a thorough search resulted in locating 30 migrant workers from Lombok hiding in mangrove forests, who had planned to travel illegally to Malaysia.
The detained individuals were transferred to the Batam City Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection Service Post for further legal proceedings.
This operation exemplifies the coordinated efforts between maritime security and intelligence agencies to combat human trafficking.
Read More: Illegal Migrant Worker Scheme Foiled at Hang Nadim Airport
Authorities continue their search for the escaped smugglers and reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding maritime borders against such illegal activities.
The successful operation underscores the Indonesian government’s commitment to combating human smuggling, ensuring safer travel for Singaporeans and international visitors.
The Indonesian government’s decisive action against a human smuggling operation in Batam reflects a strong stance on maintaining law and order and the safety of its maritime borders.
Source: Batam News, Detik.com (2023)
