BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR — Indonesia’s Bali Immigration Office is investigating the legal status of 26 foreign nationals suspected of involvement in an alleged online scam operation or human trafficking network, authorities confirmed on Tuesday. May 5, 2026.

Head of the Bali Office of the Directorate General of Immigration, Felucia Sengky Ratna, said the case remains under intensive coordination with multiple agencies, and officials have yet to determine whether the individuals are linked to fraud schemes or human trafficking offenses.

“We are still coordinating to determine whether they fall under scammer activities or human trafficking. The case is currently being handled by the relevant authorities,” Felucia said during a press briefing.

The 26 foreign nationals are currently being held at an immigration facility while further investigations are underway. Their passports have been confiscated as part of the legal process. Authorities have also contacted the respective embassies of the individuals to verify identities and check for any records in their home countries.

“We have informed their embassies for verification. Any additional information regarding their legal status abroad will be followed up,” she added.

The investigation stems from a police raid conducted on April 27, 2026, at a guest house in Kuta, Badung. The operation was led by Denpasar Police Chief Leonardo D. Simatupang following a report from the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta regarding alleged confinement of Filipino nationals suspected of being recruited as scam operators.

A total of 27 individuals were detained during the raid, including 26 foreign nationals from various countries and one Indonesian citizen. Authorities revealed that some of the detainees, including individuals from the Philippines and Kenya, were found without valid passports.

Amid the ongoing investigation, Bali Immigration also addressed circulating allegations about the existence of VIP immigration lanes at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Felucia firmly denied the claims, stating that no VIP lanes exist in immigration checks. She clarified that the only expedited service available is an automated gate system for verified electronic visa holders.

“That is not a VIP lane, but part of our digitalized immigration service,” she stressed.

She added that special assistance is only provided to vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, children, and pregnant women, as well as official delegations participating in international events.

Bali Immigration also pledged to respond swiftly to public reports, including those circulating on social media, and encouraged active participation from the public and media in monitoring foreign nationals.

“We recognize our limitations in manpower, so collaboration with the public and the media is crucial in overseeing foreign nationals in Bali,” Felucia concluded.