Police stop three Indonesians recruited as Russian mercenaries

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian police intercepted three citizens suspected of being recruited as mercenaries for Russia in a human trafficking scheme promoted on social media, authorities announced Thursday.

The victims were lured by online advertisements offering lucrative payouts without formal contracts, training, or medical screening, according to Senior Commissioner Yolanda Evalyn Sebayang of the National Police's human trafficking unit.

"The offer promised a joining bonus of US$35,000, a salary of US$3,000 per month, and free travel to Russia," Yolanda said.

Investigators found that seven Indonesians were recruited via TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram using tourist visas.

While four departed for Russia in September, police stopped the remaining three before departure.

Authorities arrested two local suspects, identified as IG and AS, who earned roughly $1,600 and $1,515 respectively—including via cryptocurrency—by coordinating visas, transit lodging, and immigration evasion with Russian contacts.

"The suspect sought candidates through social media and contacts, accommodated them in transit hotels near the airport, fabricated false statements to deceive immigration officials, and escorted them to the airport," Yolanda added.

Both suspects face charges under Indonesia's anti-human trafficking and migrant worker protection laws.

Translator: Nadia Putri R, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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