Hajj and Umrah Task Force Names 32 Suspects in Fraud Case Affecting 3,550 Pilgrims

Indonesian law enforcement, in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, has established a task force to combat fraud within the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage sector. The initiative comes in response to numerous legal violations that have negatively impacted pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj season.

As of Monday, July 6, 2026, the sub-task force for law enforcement has named 32 suspects in connection with these fraudulent activities. These suspects are accused of defrauding 3,550 pilgrims, resulting in estimated financial losses totaling Rp116.7 billion (approximately $7.1 million USD). The investigations span from the national Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim Polri) down to regional police commands (Polda).

Brig. Gen. Pol. Mohammad Irhamni, head of the sub-task force, reported that a total of 64 cases are being handled, comprising 34 police reports and 30 information reports. Several regional police units have reported significant progress. For instance, Polda Metro Jaya is investigating four cases involving 3,000 victims and losses of Rp95 billion, while Polda Jawa Timur has identified 13 suspects and Rp9.5 billion in losses from 145 victims. Polda Sulawesi Tenggara has named three suspects, affecting 282 individuals with estimated losses of Rp8.8 billion.

Polri reiterated its commitment to eradicating Hajj and Umrah-related violations to ensure pilgrims can perform their religious duties peacefully. Authorities are also warning the public to remain vigilant and avoid being tempted by offers of inexpensive Hajj and Umrah packages from untrustworthy sources.