In a significant breakthrough, the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Barelang Police has unveiled an online prostitution ring involving minors in Batam. The discovery follows a month-long investigation, with suspects using the MiChat application to exploit young girls, compelling them into servicing clients. This revelation has sparked a police crackdown on the perpetrators who have been on the radar since last month.
The case came to light following a police report alleging underage sexual exploitation at a local homestay in Batam’s Bengkong Aljabar area on Monday, February 26, 2024. The Barelang Police’s Child Protection Unit swiftly initiated surveillance, confirming the illicit activities and culminating in the arrest of three individuals involved in this disturbing trade.
The investigation began after the police received a tip-off about the suspected crime, leading to surveillance operations by Unit 6 of the PPA (Child Protection Unit) at the Barelang Police Criminal Investigation Unit.
On March 8, 2024, around 3 PM, authorities successfully apprehended three suspects, identified as Makju, Damians, and Stanis, following witness interviews and evidence gathering.
The victims included a 17-year-old girl from Moro District, Karimun Regency. The perpetrators, Damians and Stanis, advertised the minors through MiChat, while Makju forced the victims to comply with the clients’ demands.
It was revealed that the victim and suspect Makju had a familial relationship, further complicating the dynamics of coercion and exploitation.
Read More: Riau Islands Police Uncover Online Prostitution Network Through MiChat in Batam
The suspects are charged under Article 81(2) in conjunction with Article 82(1) of the Republic of Indonesia Law Number 17 of 2016, amending the Child Protection Law, with a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment.
This crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation in the region, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious activities to protect vulnerable minors. For Singaporeans and international visitors, it serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of child exploitation and the need for collective action to ensure the safety and well-being of children across Southeast Asia.
The Barelang Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit uncovered an online prostitution ring involving minors in Batam, using the MiChat app to exploit young girls. Three suspects were arrested on March 8, 2024, for forcing victims to service clients. This highlights the ongoing fight against child exploitation, stressing the need for vigilance and reporting to protect vulnerable minors.
Source: iNews (2024)
