Batam, Indonesia – The recent dismantling of an online gambling network operating out of a luxury apartment in Batam has revealed startling details. The network, controlled by siblings, generated significant daily revenue and involved minors as operators. Below are six key facts from the investigation:
1. Daily Revenue of S$29,050
The online gambling network operated out of two rooms in the Aston Pelita Apartment, generating approximately IDR 350 million (S$29,050) daily. According to Kombes Pol Dony Alexander, Director of the Kepri Police Criminal Investigation Department, the monthly turnover exceeded billions of rupiah (S$830,000).
2. Exposed After Initial Police Raid
The network’s discovery followed a raid by the Barelang Police at another location. A 34-year-old man, identified as “A,” was arrested at a shop in Lubuk Baja. He worked as a marketing agent for the gambling site “Gojekslot,” promoting links via WhatsApp to attract new players.
3. Underage Operators at the Helm
Shockingly, the gambling network employed underage individuals recruited from various regions. These minors managed the online servers and were tasked with bringing in at least 250 new players monthly for platforms like Hamsawin, Forwin87, and Botakwin. Ten operators were stationed in two apartment units.
4. Controlled by Siblings
The gambling servers were owned and managed by Candra Wijaya, with his older brother Anton Lucian assisting as a marketing strategist. Both brothers had previously been implicated in illegal gambling activities. The network featured three gambling platforms: Hamsawin, Forwin87, and Botakwin.
5. Female Accomplice Played a Key Role
A female accomplice who was arrested alongside the group played a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations. According to Kepri Police Chief Yan Fitri Halimansyah, the operators were confined to their rooms and provided meals by Candra and his female associate.
Read More: Batam Online Gambling Bust: Shocking Sibling Duo Behind Lucrative Operations
6. Digital Literacy to Counter Gambling
In response to the growing prevalence of online gambling, Batam’s Diskominfo (Information and Communication Department) has initiated digital literacy programs targeting youth. Starting next year, these programs will focus on educating primary and secondary school students about the dangers of gambling.
This investigation highlights the scale and organization of online gambling networks in Batam, including the exploitation of minors. For Singaporeans and international visitors, the crackdown underscores the importance of strict legal measures against illegal gambling activities that often have cross-border implications.
The Batam gambling network generated S$29,050 daily, employed underage operators, and was managed by siblings. Authorities are implementing digital literacy programs to counter the growing influence of online gambling in the region.
Source: Batam News (2024)
Keywords: Batam Gambling Bust, Shocking Online Scandal, Illegal Operations Uncovered
