Indonesia Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Gambling with Bank Account Blocks

Indonesian Authorities Target Illegal Gambling Through Bank Account Freezes

The Financial Services Authority of Indonesia (OJK) has intensified efforts to combat illegal online gambling by targeting bank accounts connected to such unlawful activities. Gambling is strictly regulated in Indonesia, with the majority of gambling-related practices prohibited and political leaders taking a firm stance against them.

Over 17,000 Bank Accounts Suspended in Latest Enforcement

In a recent crackdown, the OJK has instructed banks to freeze 17,026 accounts suspected of involvement in illegal gambling operations. This action reflects the agency’s commitment to limiting the influence and reach of unregulated gambling businesses within the country.

Dian Ediana Rae, the Chief Executive of Banking Supervision at OJK, praised the banks for their cooperation and adherence to regulatory measures aimed at curbing unlawful gambling activities.

OJK holds the authority to take action against accounts suspected of illegal gambling. Furthermore, banks are responsible for monitoring accounts to prevent misuse and illegal financial transactions. In a statement released on Tuesday, the regulator emphasized the expectation that banks should actively oversee all accounts to prevent financial crimes, including unauthorized use relating to gambling.

Additionally, banks are required to report any transactions that appear suspicious to the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center, which conducts further assessments of possible illegal activity.

Comprehensive Measures to Combat Illegal Gambling

The OJK also urged banks to carry out thorough fund flow analyses and implement cyber patrols to monitor suspicious accounts effectively. Indonesia has recently gained attention for strengthening its efforts against the illegal gambling sector, including recent arrests linked to these clandestine operations.

Recognizing the societal impact of gambling, the Indonesian government is also taking steps to address gambling-related harm. The Ministry of Youth and Sports has launched initiatives aimed at providing rehabilitation support, particularly focusing on teenagers who may struggle with problem gambling.