For a new operation against those who violate the rules of staying on the paradise island, immigration officers chose the rather cute name 'Bali Becik', which translates to 'Good Bali'. Over three days, operational teams composed of immigration officers, police, and Pecalang managed to inspect 62 hotels and villas.
In total, documents of 312 foreign nationals were checked. Some encountered problems... 23 people were detained - they were accused of violating Indonesia's immigration laws. 14 of them were abusing residence permits, four exceeded their stay period by more than 60 days and were sent to immigration detention.
During the operation, we also identified two foreigners who were bogus investors, and we will further investigate their cases,” stated the acting director general of immigration, Yuldi Usman.
Additionally, one foreigner was detained for failing to present a passport for inspection. Passports of seven others were seized for further investigation due to untimely notification of a change of address specified in the visas. Six people were summoned for explanations on suspicion of violating stay conditions.
The Singaraja Immigration Office conducted raids in Purwakerti, Amed, and Abang (Karangasem Regency), as well as in Umeanyar and Anturan (Buleleng Regency), inspecting hostels, dive centers, and villas. The operation also targeted three retirees from Australia, suspected of illegal real estate activities. According to the immigration service, the elderly foreigners, holding KITAS Lansia (a so-called retirement KITAS), were earning by subletting a villa in Karangasem.
The head of Singaraja's Immigration Office, Hendra Setiawan, commented on the investigation: 'Generally, foreign nationals using this visa should spend their retirement in Indonesia. Holders of this visa are not allowed to engage in income-generating activities, be it work or business.'
Immigration officers are currently continuing their meticulous work of gathering evidence. Police officers tracked down social media posts indicating clients who stayed at the villa.
'We are still gathering evidence and monitoring their activities. The information is based on the available evidence from social media and from clients, as well as how and by whom the villa was advertised. If it is proven that they are involved, then, of course, they will face deportation,' he said.
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