BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has once again demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding national waters after successfully foiling an attempt to smuggle illegal migrant workers in the waters of Karimun early Friday morning (April 24, 2026).
A joint team from the Quick Response Unit of Naval Command Region IV
Lanal Tanjung Balai Karimun and
BAIS TNI Team 3 intercepted the operation, which is believed to have involved workers returning from Malaysia through unauthorized routes.
Routine Patrol Uncovers Suspicious Activity
The operation began with intensified patrols in a coastal area known to be vulnerable to illegal crossings, stretching from Jembatan Kuning Leho to nearby coastal zones.
At approximately 03:00 WIB, officers spotted a black Avanza vehicle parked by the roadside. Inside were three young men facing the sea, whose behavior raised suspicion.
Authorities increased surveillance in the area. Shortly after, at around 03:15 WIB, a speedboat equipped with a 40-horsepower engine approached the shoreline and dropped off a man at the exact location.
DATA COLLECTION: Apprehended illegal migrant workers undergo initial questioning at Mako Lanal Tanjung Balai Karimun. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Swift Response Leads to Arrests
Responding quickly, officers conducted on-site inspections and initiated operational measures. During further investigation, the team pursued the speedboat as it attempted to flee.
The pursuit led to the arrest of four men and one woman who were hiding under fishing nets along the coast. Authorities suspect they are illegal migrant workers being smuggled through an unofficial maritime route.
However, a suspected boat operator (tekong) and three land-based coordinators managed to escape using a vehicle during the operation.
SPEEDBOAT SEIZED: Officers secure the speedboat used in the smuggling operation. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Evidence Secured, No Drugs Found
Officials confiscated several pieces of evidence at the scene, including a blue speedboat with a 40-horsepower engine, eight mobile phones, and four backpacks.
Preliminary inspections confirmed that no illegal substances, such as drugs, were found.
All seized items and detainees were transported to the
Lanal Tanjung Balai Karimun headquarters (Mako) for further investigation.
Follow-Up Measures and Increased Surveillance
The five suspected illegal workers were later handed over to BP3MI for further processing in accordance with established procedures. Meanwhile, a crew member identified by the initial "B" was transferred to the Class II TPI Immigration Office in Tanjung Balai Karimun for further questioning.
The Indonesian Navy reaffirmed its determination to intensify maritime surveillance to combat cross-border illegal activities, particularly human smuggling, and to protect the sovereignty and security of Indonesia's waters. (IDNC)
REPORTER:
Dalil Harahap | EDITOR:
Fik Sagala