BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – A United States national wanted in a murder case was detected and detained at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali after passing through the immigration autogate system, authorities confirmed.
The suspect, identified by the initials AJP, was later deported via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta on Thursday (April 23) under escort by US Marshals after being handed over to the United States Embassy.
Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko said the arrest highlights the effectiveness of Indonesia’s autogate system, which is integrated with Interpol’s global database.
“AJP was secured by immigration officers while passing through the autogate at Ngurah Rai Airport after arriving from Taipei. The system is connected to Interpol 24/7, allowing us to immediately detect wanted individuals entering Indonesia,” he said in an official statement on Friday (April 24).
According to immigration authorities, AJP is listed as a fugitive in a murder case in South Carolina, United States.
Hendarsam emphasized that the case reflects Indonesia’s selective immigration policy, which prioritizes national security and public order.
“This action demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that only foreign nationals who provide benefits and do not pose risks are allowed to stay in Indonesia,” he said.
Further details revealed that AJP first entered Indonesia on January 17, 2026, through Ngurah Rai Airport. Two days later, on January 19, he was transferred to the Directorate General of Immigration for close monitoring and placed in a detention facility for further examination.
Director of Immigration Supervision and Enforcement Yuldi Yusman said authorities maintained strict coordination with the US government throughout the process.
“We coordinated closely with US representatives to ensure all technical and administrative requirements for repatriation were properly handled,” he explained.
The case underscores Indonesia’s growing role in international law enforcement cooperation, particularly in tracking and handling cross-border criminal cases.