Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police (INP) have intercepted a boat carrying 29 people, mostly undocumented Indonesian migrant workers (PMI), attempting to cross from Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, to Malaysia.

Brigadier General Idil Tabransyah, the Director of the INP Security Maintenance Agency’s Water and Air Patrol Directorate, said  that officers stopped the vessel on Wednesday (24/9/2025) and rescued 19 Indonesians, nine Bangladeshi citizens, and one infant.

A 21-year-old operator, identified as MFL, was arrested. Police also seized a motorboat and mobile phone as evidence. He faces prosecution under the Migrant Worker Protection Law and the Immigration Law, which carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching Rp 15 billion.

All rescued migrants have been referred to relevant agencies for documentation and further handling.

“This is not just about law enforcement, but also about protecting our citizens and national sovereignty,” Chief Idil said, pledging stronger action against human trafficking and illegal sea smuggling.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)