Government Takes Firm Action Against Online Gambling in Digital Space During Protests

Jakarta – The government, along with law enforcement officials, continues to tighten digital surveillance following the emergence of negative content amid mass demonstrations. Recently, allegations of online gambling practices disguised as TikTok’s gift feature were uncovered, along with infiltration of provocations and calls for violence.

This allegation is a serious concern because it has the potential to undermine the democratic climate and pose a threat to national security. The government emphasized that freedom of expression during demonstrations remains protected, but must be free from infiltration by illegal interests that harm the public.

The Minister of Communication and Digital (Menkomdigi), Meutya Hafid, revealed that her office discovered several pieces of content on social media that included elements of online gambling disguised as gifts, provocations, and even calls for anarchy.

“Beyond informative content, some are exploiting demonstrations by inserting gambling gifts, provocations, calls for violence, and even calls to kill and burn,” wrote Meutya.

She emphasized that these firm measures were taken in accordance with applicable laws and in line with democratic practices in various countries. This phenomenon has opened the public’s eyes to the fact that demonstrations are not only a platform for expressing aspirations, but are also vulnerable to exploitation by irresponsible parties.

Meutya also urged the public to be more discerning in consuming digital information. She stated that a critical and cautious approach is crucial to prevent the spread of harmful content.

“We encourage the public to immediately report suspicious content to prevent it from damaging Indonesia’s democratic climate,” she added.

This call is part of the government’s efforts to create a healthy, safe, and productive digital space for all levels of society.

The National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) immediately followed up on the discovery of alleged online gambling under the guise of TikTok gifts. Brigadier General Himawan Bayu Aji, Director of Cyber ​​Crimes at Bareskrim Polri, confirmed that his team had coordinated with Komdigi (Indonesian National Police) to investigate the deviant content.

“Regarding information about gifts related to online gambling on TikTok, we are coordinating with Komdigi. We will investigate further to verify whether the gifts actually contain elements of gambling,” Himawan said.

Furthermore, Himawan revealed information regarding suspicious fund flows, reportedly reaching billions of rupiah, originating from Cambodia. “We will also investigate that,” he emphasized.

Synergetic steps by the government and security forces are crucial to curbing the spread of digital crime. Law enforcement against online gambling under the guise of TikTok giveaways also demonstrates the state’s presence in protecting the public from the misuse of digital platforms. These efforts are expected to not only suppress illegal practices but also maintain the public’s freedom of expression, free from external interference that could harm the nation.