JAKARTA, Indonesia — Indonesian immigration authorities have uncovered an international human smuggling ring that used Indonesia as a transit country to illegally send Chinese nationals to Australia, highlighting ongoing concerns over regional migration routes.

The syndicate operated through eastern Indonesia, particularly Papua, using remote maritime routes to avoid detection. Three foreign nationals were arrested in Jakarta: two Chinese citizens, SS (37) and XS (39), and a Thai national identified as PK (27), authorities said.

According to the Immigration Office, migrants traveled from China to Jakarta before being flown to Merauke, Papua, and then smuggled by boat to Australia. The operation allegedly charged up to 60,000 yuan per person, making human smuggling a lucrative cross-border crime.

Officials also found evidence of document forgery, including the use of a fake Indonesian electronic identity card, which was allegedly used to rent accommodation and facilitate illegal migration activities.

Authorities said Indonesia remains vulnerable as a transit point for illegal migration to Australia due to its vast coastline and proximity to key maritime routes. Investigations are ongoing to identify local collaborators and dismantle the wider smuggling network.