Bali Immigration Detains 17 Foreigners Over Alleged Illegal Online Lending Operation

The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office in Bali announced on Thursday, October 22, 2025, that it had detained 17 foreign nationals—15 Malaysians and two Singaporeans—suspected of running an illegal online personal lending business in the Dalung area of North Kuta.

The case came to light during an independent immigration operation, in which officers identified a location allegedly used as the group's base. Preliminary investigations indicate the operation was well organized, with three managers and 14 administrators dividing responsibilities.

The group reportedly advertised its lending services via Facebook, directing prospective clients to multiple WhatsApp numbers. In the course of their operations, they collected extensive personal information from borrowers, including employment details, payslips, and emergency contacts. Early findings suggest the business specifically targeted foreign nationals, with no Indonesian clients identified so far.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Office Head Muhamad Novyandri said all 17 individuals are being held at the detention facility pending further investigation, suspected of engaging in activities inconsistent with their residence permits and of submitting false information during visa and permit applications.

Ramdhani, Head of the Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration, emphasized that monitoring of foreign nationals in Bali's tourism areas would be strengthened further, stating there is 'no room for foreign nationals who misuse their residence permits, break the law, or damage Bali's tourism image,' and encouraged the public to report suspicious activities.