INDONESIAUPDATES.COM, News En – In response to allegations of extortion involving Chinese nationals, the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Imipas) has removed all immigration officers at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. This decision followed a report from the Chinese Embassy that outlined numerous instances of extortion between February 2024 and January 2025.
In a letter dated January 21, 2025, the Chinese Embassy formally contacted Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting a series of extortion cases targeting Chinese citizens at one of Jakarta’s major international airports. According to the embassy, these incidents were only a small fraction of the total cases, as many victims did not report their experiences due to tight schedules or fear of retaliation when re-entering Indonesia.
The embassy reported that, with the help of the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Consular Directorate, it had previously resolved 44 cases of extortion, returning a total of approximately Rp 32,750,000 (around $2,100) to over 60 Chinese nationals.
Embassy Requests Action
In light of the ongoing issue, the Chinese Embassy has made several requests, including the installation of signs at immigration checkpoints in Chinese, Indonesian, and English warning passengers against giving tips and urging them to report extortion. Additionally, the embassy suggested that Chinese travel agents be instructed not to encourage tourists to bribe immigration officers.
Minister Confirms Officer Replacements
Minister of Immigration and Corrections, Agus Andrianto, clarified that the replacement of all officers at Soekarno-Hatta was not directly linked to the viral video showing alleged bribery of immigration officers by Chinese nationals.
“This is a different case with different data. After receiving the information, we immediately removed the officers named in the Chinese Embassy’s report and reassigned them,” Agus confirmed in an interview with Beritasatu.com on Saturday, February 1, 2025.
The officers named in the embassy’s report are now undergoing internal investigations. Those found guilty of misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action.
Commitment to Reform
Agus emphasized that the ministry is committed to maintaining the integrity of the immigration service and improving public trust. He also thanked the Chinese Embassy for providing valuable information on the alleged extortion cases, seeing it as an opportunity for the immigration department to address issues and ensure better service.
“The integrity of our immigration service is paramount. We will continue to take firm action against any officers involved in illegal practices,” Agus added.
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