Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy chairman of the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), Achmadi, has said that his agency is ready to provide protection to witnesses and victims of illegal online lending (pinjol).

"We are ready to provide protection starting from the investigation process to the judicial," he remarked while delivering an online press statement with Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Mahfud MD, on Friday.

The LPSK has said it is coordinating with the National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) and related parties to protect victims.

"This is important so that the complainant or applicant feels safe, not afraid, and hopefully they can explain and give information properly. LPSK is ready to provide protection to reporting witnesses and victims," Achmadi added.

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Illegal online lending is detrimental to the community, he said. Even though the money lending process is quick and easy, the interest is very high, he pointed out.

Achmadi urged victims not to hesitate in seeking protection from LPSK. Victims can also come directly to the LPSK office or contact the 148 call center, he said.

"Technically, victims can come directly, or write an email, or they can also call the 148 call center, which will be followed up. Once again we are ready to provide protection to witnesses and victims in this criminal case according to the provisions of the law," he emphasized.

Meanwhile, the government has appealed to victims of illegal online lending to be brave and report if they continue to be terrorized to return the money.

"We urge the public, the victims to report. The police will provide protection and later the LPSK will give more specific protection, as well," Minister Mahfud added.

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Translator: Syaiful H, Resinta S
Editor: Suharto
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