Government Committed to Taking Firm Action Against Online Gambling Bookies
By: Afif Rahman )*
The negative impact of online gambling is increasingly disturbing the Indonesian people. This phenomenon not only affects adults, but has also targeted minors who are the most vulnerable group. The government together with law enforcement officers continue to strive to eradicate this online gambling practice by involving various parties, ranging from the police, cybersecurity experts, to financial institutions.
The Chief of the Indonesian National Police (Kapolri), General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, stated that online gambling has damaged the social and economic life of the community, especially among the lower classes. According to him, this problem is a serious threat that can damage the morals of the younger generation. Therefore, he emphasized the importance of stronger and more coordinated law enforcement. General Sigit also reminded that police officers involved in this practice must be dealt with firmly without discrimination. This step is considered crucial to maintain the integrity of law enforcement institutions in combating digital crime.
In an effort to eradicate more effectively, the Chief of Police also highlighted the need to implement Money Laundering Crimes (TPPU) against online gambling bookies. By confiscating and transferring their assets to the state, it is hoped that the perpetrators’ resources can be stopped. This step not only provides a deterrent effect but also narrows the scope for online gambling businesses that harm the community.
In line with this, cybersecurity expert and lecturer at the Police Science College (STIK) PTIK, Dr. Pratama Persadha, emphasized the importance of an effective legal approach in dealing with online gambling. He argued that law enforcement must conduct a thorough investigation into this practice by utilizing digital technology. Tracking the digital footprint and activities of bookies is considered a key step in gathering strong evidence before taking action.
In addition, Dr. Pratama also highlighted the need for cooperation between the government and internet service providers to block access to illegal gambling sites. It is not enough to just close one site, because the perpetrators usually quickly create a new platform. A more comprehensive approach, including closing access to various online gambling game links, needs to be applied consistently.
However, legal action alone is not enough. Dr. Pratama emphasized the importance of educating and socializing the public about the dangers of online gambling. By increasing public understanding of the negative impacts of digital gambling, it is hoped that interest and participation in this activity can be reduced. Collective public awareness is one of the important factors in creating an environment free from online gambling.
A similar opinion was expressed by the Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya, Prof. Dr. Laksanto Utomo, He stated that handling online gambling cannot be done partially. According to him, law enforcement must involve various institutions, including the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK), which has an important role in monitoring and analyzing financial transactions related to this practice.
Prof. Laksanto also highlighted the challenges of law enforcement against online gambling which are increasingly complex along with technological developments. Many legal loopholes are exploited by perpetrators, coupled with aggressive marketing from online gambling platforms that make the younger generation easily influenced. To overcome this, he emphasized the need for international cooperation with countries where online gambling servers are located.
In addition, he emphasized that providing healthy and positive entertainment alternatives is very important to divert the attention of the younger generation from online gambling. Educational counseling on the dangers of online gambling must also be a priority in building collective public awareness.
Prof. Laksanto added that supervision of bank accounts used by online gamblers needs to be improved. Banks and PPATK must ensure that these accounts are not used for illegal activities. With strict supervision, access to online gambling is expected to be increasingly limited.
The steps taken by the government in eradicating online gambling show a serious commitment to protecting the public, especially the younger generation, from the negative impacts of gambling. Online gambling is not only financially detrimental but also has the potential to damage the morals and social life of the community. Therefore, full support from various parties is needed.
The active role of law enforcement, cross-sector cooperation, and public participation will be the key to success in eradicating online gambling.
