Police question influencer Awkarin in umrah travel fraud case

Police in Jakarta have summoned social media influencer Karin Novilda, widely known as Awkarin, for questioning as a witness in an alleged fraud case involving umrah travel packages. The investigation centers on PT Khazanah Tamma Internasional, also known as Hanania Group, which is accused of defrauding prospective pilgrims.

Awkarin was scheduled to appear before investigators at the Polda Metro Jaya on Monday, June 29. While the exact nature of the questions remains undisclosed, police spokesperson Kombes Budi Hermanto confirmed that investigators would seek information from her. This follows previous summons that were rescheduled.

The investigation is actively exploring the extent of the alleged fraud and whether additional suspects are involved. Police have already named Ahmad Syah Farhan, the Director Utama of Hanania Group, as a suspect and placed him in detention. He faces charges under various articles of the Indonesian Criminal Code.

Initial findings suggest that funds deposited by potential pilgrims were used for purposes unrelated to organizing the umrah trips. Furthermore, some of the money was allegedly used to pay influencers for promoting the travel packages. The police continue to gather statements from witnesses to further their investigation.