Inp.polri.go.id - Palembang. South Sumatra Regional Police have uncovered a syndicate illegally activating International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers for thousands of imported phones. Four suspects were arrested, each with distinct roles in the operation.

“This practice not only violates the law but also disrupts telecom oversight and harms the state,” said Superintendent Listiyono Dwi Nugroho, the South Sumatra Polcie Deputy Director of Special Crimes, on Wednesday (3/6/2026).

Suspect AR (43) allegedly led the scheme by using foreign passport data to register devices. Suspect RK (42) owned a phone shop offering illegal activation services, while suspects  IJ (26) and BRW (40) manipulated IMEI codes and electronic documents.

Police seized phones, electronic documents, foreign passports, IMEI screenshots, SIM cards, and financial records.

The suspects face charges under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law.  

South Sumatra Police Head of Public Relations Senior Superintendent. Nandang Mu’min Wijaya stressed firm action against cybercrime and urged the public to avoid illegal device activation services.

(mg/ax/pr/rs)