Indonesian Immigration Deports American Fugitive After Years in Hiding
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- Indonesian immigration authorities deported a US national wanted in a sexual abuse case after his arrest in Depok, where he had been hiding for years.
- The arrest followed close coordination between Indonesian officials and the US Embassy, leading to the capture of a fugitive who had lived in Indonesia since 2011.
- The case highlights Indonesia’s firm immigration enforcement and its cooperation with international authorities in handling serious crimes involving foreign nationals.
Jakarta — Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has deported an American national, identified as AW, who was wanted in connection with a sexual abuse case in the United States.
Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko confirmed that the individual was deported to the United States on Thursday (June 4).
“The individual has been deported as of Thursday. The alleged crime was committed in the United States, and he will face legal proceedings there,” Hendarsam said in Jakarta on Sunday.
Immigration authorities apprehended AW at a bunker located within his residence in Sawangan, Depok, on April 23, 2026.
According to officials, AW had been living in Indonesia since 2011, allegedly to evade legal proceedings related to a sexual abuse case in the United States.
The arrest followed a formal request for assistance from the US Embassy, prompting Indonesian authorities to carry out a series of investigations and intelligence operations.
Authorities revealed that the case came to light after a woman identified as NM reported to immigration officials that she and her two children had been subjected to restrictions on their freedom and had also become victims of sexual abuse by AW.
After facilitating the return of NM and her children to the United States, Indonesian immigration officials coordinated with US authorities to verify AW’s status. This effort ultimately led to his identification, location, and arrest in Depok.
Further investigation found that AW had committed serious immigration violations, including the use of false identity documents and misuse of travel documents.
“He has been subjected to administrative immigration measures, including detention, deportation, and handover,” Hendarsam stated.
He emphasized that the case demonstrates the effectiveness of immigration oversight and reflects the agency’s commitment to safeguarding national security and sovereignty through its “selective policy” approach and the principle of “Immigration for the People.”
The deportation process on Thursday (June 4) was conducted under the direct supervision of the US Marshals.
Indonesianpost.com | Antara
