DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Dozens of foreign nationals believed to be victims of an alleged scam operation in Bali remain under intensive questioning by Denpasar Police, as investigations continue following a recent raid in Kedonganan.
The case is a follow-up to an earlier operation on Monday (April 27), when joint officers from Denpasar Police and Kuta Police raided a guest house on Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Gang Karang Sari, detaining 27 individuals, including 26 foreign nationals and one Indonesian.
Authorities suspect the individuals were confined and prepared to be used as scam operators. However, police say the victims have so far provided limited information regarding those responsible for their recruitment and confinement.
“The guest house was rented for a month. They were allegedly confined and intended to be used as scam operators,” said Denpasar Police spokesperson Iptu Gede Adi Saputra on Wednesday (April 29).
According to initial findings, the individuals had been promised job opportunities in Bali before arriving. Police are currently coordinating with relevant embassies to provide assistance and gather further information.
During a search of the property, officers found several unusual items, including jackets labeled “FBI” and an American flag. Authorities are still examining the purpose of these items as part of the ongoing investigation.
“We are still investigating the presence and intended use of those items,” Adi added.
Police also confirmed that the passports of the foreign nationals have been secured, and coordination is underway with immigration authorities as part of the legal process.
The raid was initiated following a report from the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, which raised concerns about possible confinement of its citizens. Investigators later found that several rooms on the second floor of the guest house had been modified into workspaces equipped with laptops and internet infrastructure, indicating organized activity.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the full network behind the alleged scam operation and determine potential criminal responsibility.
For international readers, the case underscores increasing scrutiny on illegal online operations in Bali and ongoing coordination between local authorities and foreign embassies.