As the FIFA World Cup approaches, Indonesian police are urging fans to remain vigilant against online scams, curb 'excessive fanaticism,' and avoid illegal sports betting, which is banned under Sharia law. Indonesia enforces a strict ban on all forms of gambling, whether online or in-person, applicable to both locals and foreigners.
Authorities have expressed heightened concerns that illegal online gambling operations, fleeing a major crackdown in Cambodia, are establishing themselves in Indonesia. Last week, authorities raided an operation in West Jakarta, apprehending over 320 foreign nationals allegedly managing 75 online gaming sites.
Brigadier General Wira Satya Triputra, director of the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency, noted, “Some of them came here specifically to work as online gambling operators.” He described the operations as organized and systematic, utilizing electronic systems for cross-border digital activities.
The arrested individuals originated from various Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand. Brigadier General Untung Widyatmoko, from the National Central Bureau of Interpol Indonesia, remarked, “We have anticipated and predicted this,” indicating that police have already identified other transnational scam hubs in regions like Surabaya, Denpasar, and Batam.
In addition to Indonesia, there are reports of Cambodian gambling operators relocating to other Asian nations such as the Philippines, Timor Leste, and even South Africa.
The World Cup, scheduled from 11 June to 19 July across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is expected to draw an audience of around 6 billion viewers, making it the most-watched sporting event ever. An estimate suggests that fans may bet upwards of US$35 billion during the tournament, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches.
Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, a public information officer with the Indonesian National Police, warned citizens about the risks posed by illegal online gambling providers. Indonesian broadcaster TVRI plans to host public viewing events across 34 regional stations. However, during a press conference on 8 May, National Police spokesman Andiko stated, “We must jointly anticipate football gambling.” He emphasized, “But we must not allow this momentum to be exploited for illegal activities that could cause losses. Support your favorite team with positive enthusiasm. Don’t let excessive fanaticism disrupt public security and order.” He also encouraged the public to report any suspicious fraudulent activities via a hotline.
