Denpasar, Bali. Indonesian immigration authorities have detained three foreign nationals in Bali for allegedly engaging in an online prostitution business, officials said on Monday, as part of a broader crackdown on misuse of residence permits.

The three women — two Russian nationals identified by their initials ED and AR, and a Nigerian national identified as EJN — were arrested following cyber surveillance of a website suspected of facilitating prostitution services, according to Denpasar Immigration Office.

“We do not tolerate the misuse of stay permits, including violations of Indonesian law and social norms,” Denpasar Immigration chief R. Haryo Sakti said in a statement.

The suspects, aged between 21 and 27, are currently being held for questioning at the immigration office in Denpasar.

Authorities said the arrests were carried out at separate locations. ED and EJN were apprehended at a villa in Mengwi, Badung Regency, while AR was detained at a hotel in the Renon area of Denpasar.

EJN entered Indonesia via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on March 21, while ED arrived through I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport on March 10. AR, also traveling on a visit permit, entered the country on April 22.

“AR was secured in a hotel room with a male individual after her identity was confirmed through the immigration data system,” Haryo said.

Authorities have not disclosed further details about the alleged operation or whether additional individuals are under investigation.

The immigration office said the three women could face deportation and potential blacklisting from re-entering Indonesia. Under Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration, entry bans can be imposed for a minimum of six months, subject to a decision by the Directorate General of Immigration in Jakarta.

Officials urged foreign visitors to comply with Indonesian laws and contribute positively to local communities, particularly in tourist destinations such as Bali.

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