Indonesian Police Reveal 'Ferienjob' Trafficking Scheme Involving Dozens of Students
Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police has revealed the roles of five individuals in a human trafficking scheme aimed at sending dozens of internship students (known as "ferienjob" in German) to Germany. Meanwhile, Chief Cultural Affairs Minister Muhadjir Effendy expresses hope for an amicable resolution to the case.
"Ferienjob" refers to temporary work or internships that students undertake during school or university holidays to gain experience or earn extra income.
According to Djuhandhani Rahardjo Puro, Director of General Crimes at the Indonesian National Police Criminal Investigation Department, the five suspects are ER (also known as EW), A (also known as AE), SS, AJ, and MZ.
ER, who serves as the director of the human resources company SHB, was responsible for establishing cooperation and signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between SHB and State University of Jakarta (UNJ). She collaborated with CV GEN to manage departure requirements and liaised with German agencies to arrange internships for students.
A presented the ferienjob program to universities and convinced students to participate, charging registration fees and assisting with tourist visa applications for those traveling to Germany.
SS introduced the ferienjob program to universities and integrated it into the independent learning campus program (Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka). He promoted the program as an opportunity for students to gain work experience and introduced SHB and CV GEN to university stakeholders.
AJ oversaw the selection process for the ferienjob program, facilitated student participation, directed students to use cooperative funds, allowed deviations from the MoU, and intervened to ensure students continued working in Germany.
Lastly, MZ, as chairman of LP3M, facilitated student loans for the ferienjob program and guaranteed funds from cooperatives. LP3M oversees the program and acts as a guarantor for cooperative funds.
Chief Cultural Affairs Minister Muhadjir Effendy hopes that the alleged human trafficking case could find a peaceful resolution and avoid criminal proceedings.
"I hope that if a good solution can be found, it won't lead to human trafficking charges. If possible, let's find a peaceful solution or a compromise so it doesn't escalate into human trafficking," said Muhadjir in Jakarta on Tuesday.
According to Muhadjir, he has not found any elements of criminal acts such as torture or exploitation commonly found in human trafficking cases.
Although procedurally flawed, Muhadjir praised the overseas internship scheme through the summer job program. He noted that it's a common practice for students abroad during holiday seasons.
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