Inp.polri.go.id - Banda Aceh.  Aceh Regional Police have confirmed that the presence of Rohingya immigrants aboard a ship off the coast of Labuhan Haji, South Aceh, is a clear case of human trafficking.

“This is purely a human trafficking case,” said Aceh Police Head of Public Relations Senior Superintendent Joko Krisdiyanto on Monday (21/10/2024).

Authorities arrested three suspects, identified as F (35), A (33), and I (32), while eight others remain at large. The investigation began after the body of a woman was found near Labuhan Haji waters on 17 October 2024, followed by the discovery of a boat carrying 150 Rohingya, including three deceased.

The Rohingya immigrants had reportedly set sail from Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, and were transferred onto the fishing vessel KM Bintang Raseuki. Investigations revealed that the boat had been purchased for Rp 580 million a month prior.

Three suspects face charges related to human trafficking, illegal immigration, and maritime law violations. The case is being handled by a joint task force, including the immigration Office, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

(mg/inp/pr/nm)