inp.polri.go.id - Rote Ndao. A case of alleged fraud using hypnosis has become a hot topic in Rote Ndao Regency. It involved DFE, a fruit vendor operating in Busalangga Village, Northwest Rote District, Rote Ndao Regency, on Friday (1/30/2026).

The incident began when the victim reported the incident to the Northwest Rote Sub-regional Police.

According to DFE, the complainant, the incident occurred on Thursday (January 29, 2026) when a man, later identified as MM, visited the victim's fruit stall with the intention of purchasing fruit.

He requested that the fruit be prepared and picked up the next day, Friday (January 30, 2026). During this interaction, the victim allegedly fell into hypnosis after making eye contact with the perpetrator.

While completely unconscious, the victim complied with the perpetrator's various demands, including handing over his National Identity Card (KTP), Family Card (KK), and IDR 650,000 in cash, claiming it was for administrative fees for the aid.

Furthermore, the perpetrator also claimed to be an employee of the Rote Ndao Regency Population and Civil Registration Office and invited the victim to the office to sign a receipt. The perpetrator gave the victim a ride to the Baa office complex, but because it was past business hours, he was then dropped off at his initial place.

"After realizing he had been a victim of fraud, the DFE reported the incident to the Rote Barat Laut Sector Police. After receiving the police report and successfully identifying the perpetrator, identified as MM, a resident of Dolasi Village, Rote Barat Daya District, we immediately went to his residence, but he was not there," said Northwest Rote Sector Police Chief, Second Police Inspector Andri L.

Andri explained that based on information from the public, it was known that the perpetrator was attempting to flee to Kupang by sea.

"The perpetrator's escape was uncovered while he was on board the Garda Maritim III ship bound for Bolok Port, Kupang. Through coordination with Bolok Marine KP3 personnel, the suspect, MM, was apprehended shortly after the ship arrived at Bolok Port," explained Andri.

Meanwhile, the Rote Ndao Sub-regional Police Chief, Superintendent Mardiono, emphasized that this case is of serious concern to the police, especially since it occurred in early 2026 and went viral on social media.

"This is a fraudulent act using hypnosis in early 2026. We hope the public will remain vigilant," said Mardiono.

He also commended the swift action of the North West Rote Police in handling the public report.

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