Bali Immigration Arrests 17 Foreigners Over Illegal Online Lending Operation
Bali's Ngurah Rai Immigration Office detained 17 foreigners—15 Malaysians and two Singaporeans—suspected of running an illegal online lending business while misusing their residence permits. The group was raided at their base in Dalung, North Kuta, on October 22, and is accused of providing false information to obtain visas.
Bali's Ngurah Rai Immigration Office has announced the arrest of 17 foreigners—15 Malaysians and two Singaporeans—suspected of operating an illegal online lending business. Office chief Muhamad Novyandri said the group is accused of misusing their residence permits and providing false information to obtain visas and stay permits.
The raid took place on Thursday, October 22, at the group's residential and operational base in Dalung, North Kuta, Badung District. Preliminary questioning revealed that three suspects managed the operation while the remaining 14 worked as administrators.
The group advertised its lending services on Facebook, directing potential customers to several WhatsApp numbers. They collected personal data including employment details, salary slips, and emergency contacts. Novyandri noted that the operation appeared to target foreign nationals specifically, with no Indonesian customers identified so far. Investigators have not yet determined the total value of loans issued or whether any customers suffered financial losses.
All 17 individuals are being held at an immigration detention facility pending further investigation. They may face administrative action under Article 75(1) of Indonesia's 2011 Immigration Law. Authorities stated they apply the law without discrimination against any foreigners found misusing residence permits for illegal work in Bali.
Things to Consider
Foreign residents in Bali should confirm that their work and business activities stay strictly within the scope of their visa/KITAS conditions, and be cautious of lending services advertised via social media or WhatsApp. Avoid sharing personal financial data—such as salary slips or emergency contacts—with unverified online lenders. If you've engaged with such a service, cease contact immediately and consult a lawyer or the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office to clarify your visa status or report suspicious activity.
Source: ANTARA