Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry is monitoring a baby trafficking case involving illegal adoptions that sent 18 children from West Java to Singapore.
Deputy for Child Special Protection Titi Eko Rahayu said the government was concerned about the case and stressed that children must never be treated as commodities.
The children’s best interests must remain the priority throughout prevention and case handling, including ensuring their rights and providing services tailored to their needs, she said here Tuesday.
The case underscores the need to strengthen prevention through public education on legal adoption, stronger family resilience, and improved access to services and complaint mechanisms, Rahayu said.
The alleged trafficking violated children’s rights, particularly their rights to identity, protection and development in a safe environment, she said.
Authorities said 18 child victims had already been taken abroad, while seven others were prevented from being sent to Singapore and are undergoing family reintegration or alternative care.
The government is also investigating the whereabouts of other children suspected of being victims of the trafficking syndicate.
Indonesian authorities have processed 19 suspects in connection with the case, with courts sentencing them on July 21, 2026.
Rahayu praised law enforcement agencies, ministries, government agencies and regional authorities for uncovering the network, including its recruitment of parents, document fraud, housing of babies and overseas transfers.
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Translator: Anita, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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