By: Farida Salsabila
Digital security has become a new battleground for nations in safeguarding their sovereignty and the welfare of their people. As the virtual world becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, various crimes have evolved with the times—one of the most concerning being the growing prevalence of online gambling. However, the success of law enforcement in dismantling these hidden networks is clear proof that the state is not idle, and more importantly: the state is not losing.
One such success occurred in West Jakarta. A seemingly ordinary coffee shop in Kalideres turned out to be a hub of illegal activity. The Directorate of General Criminal Investigation (Ditreskrimum) of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police successfully raided the location and uncovered that it was being used as a base for online gambling operations. Two suspects, identified by their initials SBU and JPM, were arrested during the operation.
This discovery began with a cyber patrol by Unit 2 of the Tahbang/Resmob Sub-directorate in early April 2025. The team found suspicious activity linked to the website gulalislot69.top, which offered online gambling services and was tied to bank accounts under the names of the two suspects. After a thorough investigation, the police successfully raided the site operating the platform.
The Head of Public Relations for the Jakarta Metro Police, Commissioner Ade Ary Syam Indradi, stated that several pieces of evidence were confiscated during the raid, including bank records, multiple mobile phones, and laptops used to manage the site. He emphasized that the police remain committed to keeping the digital space clean and safe and will continue pursuing others involved.
The Kalideres case is just the tip of the iceberg in the larger reality of rampant online gambling. The Indonesian government, through the National Police (Polri), is intensifying efforts to eradicate this illegal activity. As of early 2025, Polri has arrested over 1,248 individuals involved in online gambling networks. This is not merely a law enforcement operation—it is part of a broader war to protect the public, especially younger generations, from the grips of digital addiction that could ruin their futures.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo highlighted the increasingly sophisticated methods used by perpetrators, who now target vulnerable groups. He noted that many exploit economic hardships, particularly among those earning below IDR 1–2 million, luring them with the promise of quick profits. Even more worrying, the demographic of offenders has now extended to children under the age of ten.
This situation demands a response that is not only repressive but also preventive. The police chief emphasized that Polri is not solely focused on enforcement but is also actively conducting education and outreach to all levels of society regarding the financial, psychological, and social risks of online gambling. These efforts aim to raise awareness that behind promises of instant gains lies a dangerous trap that can erode one’s future.
The government, through various agencies, is also developing more advanced digital monitoring systems. Website blocking efforts have been ramped up in cooperation with the Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi), the Financial Services Authority (OJK), and national banks. Bank accounts used for gambling transactions are now being closely monitored and will be closed if found to be in violation of the law.
This inter-agency synergy is key to the success of the crackdown on online gambling. Cooperation between law enforcement, tech regulators, and civil society must be continually strengthened. Online gambling is not just a legal issue—it is a social, economic, and even moral one. Without comprehensive action, the nation risks producing a lost generation, misled by digital addiction.
Beyond enforcement and prevention, encouraging active community participation in local vigilance is essential. The Kalideres case shows that illegal activities can take place in seemingly ordinary and familiar settings. In such cases, the role of citizens in reporting suspicious activities to authorities becomes crucial.
The government must also continue strengthening digital literacy at the grassroots level. Anti-online gambling campaigns should go beyond social media or formal channels—they must be present in schools, campuses, places of worship, and neighborhood communities. Involving religious leaders, community figures, and young people in this movement is a strategic step toward building widespread collective awareness.
The successful police raid on the coffee shop turned online gambling den is more than just a routine law enforcement action. It is a powerful signal that the state is present and will not give up in fighting digital crimes that threaten social order.
Now is the time for society to unite and join hands with the government and law enforcement. Stay alert and report any online gambling activity in your area. Protect your family, children, and younger generations from the traps of destructive digital content. Because the nation’s future begins with a clean, healthy environment—free from cybercrime.
The author is a member of the Kampoeng Depok Community.
