Exhumation of Soleh Darmawan’s Body: Suspected Victim of Human Trafficking in Cambodia

INDONESIAUPDATES.COM, News En  – Indonesian police are set to exhume the body of Soleh Darmawan, a 24-year-old man from Bekasi, who is suspected to have fallen victim to human trafficking (TPPO) in Cambodia. The exhumation is scheduled to take place on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 09:00 AM local time, at the family cemetery behind his home on Jalan Swadaya, Kampung Dua, Jatisampurna, West Bekasi.

This decision was made after the family raised suspicions about Soleh’s death, which occurred under mysterious circumstances after he was promised a job in Thailand.

“Friday morning at 9 o’clock,” confirmed Soleh’s uncle, Atenk, on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

Left for Thailand, Found Dead in Cambodia

In February 2025, Soleh left Indonesia after being offered a job abroad by a friend. He was promised work as a chef with a salary three times higher than what he earned at home. However, once overseas, Soleh’s communication became limited, and his behavior changed drastically, according to his mother, Diana.

“He used to call us while baking bread, but this time he just stayed in bed, wrapped in a blanket,” she said.

Tragically, on March 3, 2025, the family received news that Soleh had died. It was later discovered that he had been in Cambodia, not Thailand as previously believed. His friends from university helped trace his last known location. His body was repatriated to Indonesia on March 15 and buried the following day.

Signs of Possible Organ Trafficking

What further fueled the family’s suspicions were visible wounds on Soleh’s body. His mother noticed a deep incision on his abdomen while preparing the body for burial, sparking rumors that his organs may have been harvested.

“There was a gash on his stomach. People were saying his kidneys might have been taken,” Diana explained.

Police Conduct Exhumation for Further Investigation

Police will now exhume the body for a second autopsy, hoping to clarify the actual cause of death and determine whether Soleh was indeed a victim of illegal organ trafficking linked to a broader human trafficking network.

The family hopes this step will uncover the truth and bring justice to Soleh.

Authorities Warn Against Illegal Job Offers Abroad

This case adds to the growing list of Indonesian citizens who have become victims of human trafficking in Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. The Indonesian government has since tightened security at airports and seaports to prevent illegal recruitment of migrant workers.

Citizens are advised to:

  • Only go abroad through legal and registered agencies,

  • Be skeptical of job offers with unrealistically high salaries,

  • And always ensure their departure is documented and monitored by family.


Pertanyaan Umum (FAQ) – Soleh Darmawan Human Trafficking Case


Q1: Who was Soleh Darmawan?
A 24-year-old from Bekasi, Indonesia, who allegedly fell victim to human trafficking in Cambodia after being promised a job in Thailand.

Q2: Why is his body being exhumed?
To perform a forensic autopsy due to suspicious injuries found on the body, believed to indicate potential organ removal.

Q3: Where and when is the exhumation?
On May 9, 2025, at 09:00 AM in the family cemetery in Jatisampurna, West Bekasi.

Q4: Is this a confirmed case of human trafficking?
While not yet confirmed, the circumstances point strongly toward human trafficking and possibly illegal organ trade.

Q5: How can others avoid becoming victims?
Only work abroad through legal channels, research job offers thoroughly, and ensure constant communication with family.


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