The Indonesian government has intensified its crackdown on online gambling, announcing efforts to trace all methods of access, including both virtual private networks (VPNs) and non-VPN connections.
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Budi Gunawan made the statement on Tuesday at the State Palace, highlighting the government’s drive to eliminate online gambling within the country.
“We will investigate all accesses used, either VPN or non-VPN,” Minister Gunawan confirmed, adding that the Online Gambling Handling Desk will continue its probes into suspected involvement in online gambling, especially within the Ministry of Communication and Digital.
The newly established Online Gambling Handling Desk aims to tackle the issue from two fronts: law enforcement action against individuals facilitating or engaging in online gambling, and public education initiatives to prevent its spread.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who heads the desk, confirmed that authorities will pursue gambling organizers operating within Indonesia, although details of the strategy remain confidential.
“General Prabowo has explained that action will be taken as long as the bookies are in Indonesia. We cannot reveal all the details, let the Online Gambling Desk work,” said Gunawan.
These actions follow an announcement by Communication and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid regarding the temporary suspension of 11 ministry employees, following their arrests on allegations of abuse of authority to shield online gambling sites.
The ministry, in collaboration with police, is currently compiling data on any employees believed to be associated with such activities, while also strengthening its own measures to block access to online gambling content and websites.
On Monday, General Prabowo reaffirmed the police’s dedication to dismantling online gambling networks with support from the Online Gambling Handling Desk. The police will also work alongside the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to trace payment systems, restrict cash flows linked to online gambling, and disable any financial instruments used in these transactions.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/noticias/2024/11/05/84322-indonesian-government-expands-crackdown-on-online-gambling-investigates-ministry-staff
