Jakarta. Indonesian immigration officials are investigating two Israeli nationals, reportedly former members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), for allegedly managing a series of luxury villas in Bali.

Immigration and Correctional Affairs Minister Agus Andrianto confirmed on Wednesday that an investigation is underway, with a team already deployed on site.

“We’re currently looking into it. A team is already on the ground and conducting operations,” Agus said at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta, as quoted by state news agency Antara.

The probe follows a recent immigration inspection in Bali, during which around 100 foreign nationals were detained. However, Agus has yet to disclose details regarding any specific violations committed by the individuals involved.

The two Israelis under investigation are identified as a man and a woman. One of them is reportedly Shachar Gornen, a content creator and traveler known for promoting luxury properties on social media.

Indonesia does not have formal diplomatic relations with Israel, and Israeli passport holders cannot legally enter Indonesia without special permission. However, Israeli nationals have occasionally entered the country using second passports (from countries like Germany, Canada, etc.), often through dual citizenship. 

Although it is not explicitly illegal for Israelis to do business in Indonesia, entering under a false nationality or using another country’s passport to conceal Israeli identity can lead to legal complications.

Netizens allege that Gornen was previously active in managing the Instagram account @gonenvillasbali, which featured high-end, tropical-modern villas across Bali. The account is now set to private, with no visible posts or followers. Gornen’s personal Instagram account has also been restricted.

Despite this, cached images and screenshots of Gornen’s villa promotions remain accessible via online searches.

Unverified reports suggest that Gornen may have entered Indonesia by registering as a German national, which enabled her to obtain an Investor Kitas (limited stay permit) valid until March 2026. Her visa is reportedly sponsored by a local Indonesian company. She is believed to reside in the Pererenan area of Mengwi, Badung Regency.

Immigration authorities have not released an official statement detailing the case. However, Bali Police have signaled their readiness to assist should any legal or criminal violations be uncovered.

The case has sparked renewed scrutiny over foreign nationals working or running businesses illegally in Bali, a destination increasingly popular among digital nomads and expatriates.

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