INDONESIAUPDATES.COM, News En – Immigration officers at the Immigration Checkpoint (TPI) of Kualanamu International Airport, Medan, North Sumatra, thwarted the departure of nine Indonesian citizens (WNI) who were suspected of attempting to perform the Hajj pilgrimage through unofficial means. The incident occurred on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at around 5:00 PM local time.
Head of the Class I Special Immigration Office of TPI Medan, Uray Avian, stated that officers became suspicious after receiving inconsistent responses from the passengers during interviews at the immigration counter.
“Some claimed they were going on holiday to Malaysia, while others said they were going to work. These discrepancies prompted further investigation,” Avian said in a statement on Saturday (May 24, 2025).
Further questioning revealed that all nine individuals had identical flight tickets yet did not know each other, which strengthened suspicions that their travel arrangements had been coordinated by a third party.
“Two of the individuals admitted they were travel agents who brought the remaining seven intending pilgrims using work visas. This clearly violates regulations, as Hajj must be carried out with a visa specifically designated for the pilgrimage,” he added.
Immigration Secures Evidence, Issues Public Warning
In response to the discovery, immigration officers halted the group’s departure, secured their travel documents, and collected electronic evidence for further investigation by the authorities.
Avian emphasized the importance of vigilance among the public when receiving offers to perform Hajj via unofficial routes.
“We urge the public not to be tempted by unofficial offers to perform Hajj. Such actions may lead to legal problems and distress during the pilgrimage. Please wait patiently and follow official procedures to ensure safety, comfort, and legal protection,” he explained.
The Class I Special Immigration Office of TPI Medan affirmed its commitment to strengthening monitoring and enforcement to ensure that all Indonesian citizens traveling abroad comply with immigration regulations.
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