Surabaya, East Java (ANTARA) - East Java Police have named FD, a 57-year-old foreign national who owns a restaurant in Sidoarjo district, as a suspect in the alleged trafficking of 19 workers, including a child.
"We are committed to combating human trafficking and exploitation. We will enforce the law professionally while prioritizing victim protection," East Java Police Spokesman Senior Commissioner Jules Abraham Abast said in Surabaya on Wednesday.
FD, who holds a limited stay permit as an investor, was named a suspect after investigators uncovered alleged worker exploitation at his restaurant.
Abast said the case is not solely about prosecuting FD, but also ensuring victims receive protection and assistance.
"Victim protection is central to this case. We are coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure victims receive assistance and psychological support," Abast said.
Ganis Setyaningrum, head of the East Java Police Directorate of Women and Children Protection and Human Trafficking Eradication, said the alleged exploitation took place from May to October 2026.
Setyaningrum said FD recruited workers through social media and required them to sign employment agreements, forcing them to work under conditions disproportionate to their pay even before the restaurant opened.
The workers were paid Rp1.3 million to Rp1.5 million (US$71.76 to US$82.80) a month, and FD allegedly threatened them with penalties of Rp5 million to Rp15 million (US$276 to US$828) if they quit before completing three months.
Setyaningrum said victim statements and other evidence indicated worker exploitation, forming the basis for naming FD a suspect.
Investigators are also examining allegations of sexual violence against two male victims while protecting their identities, privacy, and psychological well-being.
Police seized several items as evidence, including mobile phones, clothing, a birth certificate, and employment agreements.
FD faces charges under laws covering human trafficking, child protection, and labor, police said.