Batam, Riau Islands (ANTARA) - Hundreds of foreign nationals were arrested during an immigration raid at an apartment in Batam, Riau Islands, as authorities investigated their suspected involvement in an online scam syndicate.

Batam Immigration Office Head Wahyu Eka Putra confirmed that the raid occurred at the Baloi View Apartment on Wednesday morning.

"We can say hundreds were arrested, but we need time to determine the exact number of foreigners nabbed during the operation," Putra stated during a press conference here.

The raid was carried out as part of an ongoing investigation into existing cases, supported by intelligence findings and public tips.

Those arrested were taken to the Batam immigration office for further questioning, he said, while not revealing the nationality of foreigners arrested during the operation.

Putra confirmed that the foreigners were suspected of involvement in an online scam syndicate. However, further investigation is needed to determine the specific offenses they may have committed.

The immigration office is coordinating with relevant authorities to investigate the case, he added.

"Our coordination with the police proceeds well, as they are supportive of our operation. We are thankful for the good cooperation with the Batam police," Putra stated.

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Translator: Amandine Nadja, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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