North Kuta Immigration Detains 17 Foreign Nationals

North Kuta — Immigration officers detained 17 foreign nationals on Oct. 22 after finding them at a villa in Dalung, where they were suspected of operating an online lending business while misusing their residence permits. The group, identified in a report dated Oct. 27, comprised 15 Malaysians and two Singaporeans.

The detainees were still undergoing examination and had been placed in immigration detention, according to the reports. Muhamad Novyandri, head of the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office, said the group was suspected of carrying out activities inconsistent with its permits and of providing false information when obtaining visas and residence permits.

The reported operation used Facebook advertisements to promote lending services and directed prospective customers to WhatsApp numbers. Investigators said three members managed the operation and the other 14 worked as administrators. Authorities had not determined the total value of loans issued or whether customers suffered financial losses.

Why It Matters to Foreign Residents

For foreign residents in Bali, the case illustrates the practical reach of Indonesia’s immigration rules beyond the length of a stay. A residence permit does not authorize activities outside its stated purpose, and alleged work or commercial activity inconsistent with that permission can lead to detention while authorities examine the case.

The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office is the Indonesian immigration authority responsible for the airport and surrounding areas. The reports said the group was detained in Dalung, North Kuta, in Badung District, during an immigration operation on Oct. 22. The suspects were being held as the investigation continued; the reports did not establish a final finding of criminal liability.

Sources

• balipost.com
• thejakartapost.com
• rri.co.id
• straitstimes.com
• indobalinews.pikiran-rakyat.com