A corruption scandal at one of Indonesia’s busiest ferry gateways has sparked concern among regional travellers, after authorities confirmed that an immigration officer has been dismissed over alleged extortion activities targeting tourists.
The incident took place at the Batam Centre International Ferry Terminal, a key entry point frequently used by travellers from Singapore. Indonesian officials have since taken swift action, reinforcing their stance against illegal practices within the country’s border control system.
According to reports, the officer was removed from duty after investigations linked him to a scheme involving unauthorised “fees” imposed on foreign visitors. A middleman, identified as AS, was also arrested for his role in facilitating the alleged scheme. The case was reported by CNN Indonesia, citing local immigration authorities.
Travellers Allegedly Pressured Into Paying Cash
Authorities revealed that tourists from multiple countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, China, the Philippines and Bangladesh, were targeted. Victims were allegedly asked to pay amounts ranging from S$100 to as much as S$300 per person under questionable circumstances.
In one case, a Singaporean couple travelling to Batam claimed they were stopped by officers shortly after arrival. Their passports were reportedly taken, and they were accused of being “disrespectful”. The situation escalated when officers allegedly raised their voices, confiscated a mobile phone, and demanded S$100 each as a so-called penalty.
Fearing further trouble—including threats of being held overnight—the couple eventually handed over the cash. The payment was allegedly concealed discreetly, raising further suspicion about the legitimacy of the transaction.
Elderly Travellers Also Caught in Scheme
Another traveller recounted a similar experience involving his elderly parents, who were travelling on Myanmar passports. During immigration checks, officers allegedly claimed there were issues with their Malaysian visas and demanded S$150 per person to proceed.
Despite initially resisting, the traveller eventually paid a negotiated sum of S$250 after seeing his parents exhausted from the ordeal. The incident has raised concerns about vulnerable travellers being specifically targeted.
Investigators later revealed that the alleged operation began with lower “fees” of around S$100 before escalating to as high as S$300. The money was reportedly split between the officer and the broker.
Authorities Promise Refunds and Crackdown
The head of the Batam Immigration Office has confirmed that CCTV footage has been secured as part of the ongoing investigation. He reiterated that authorities maintain a strict “zero tolerance” policy towards illegal levies and misconduct.
Officials also pledged that affected travellers would be reimbursed, stating that the funds had been used for personal gain and would be returned to victims.
The case has drawn attention among Singapore-based travellers, many of whom rely on Batam as a convenient getaway destination. With travel demand between Singapore and Indonesia remaining strong, the incident serves as a reminder for travellers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious requests for unofficial payments.