Heaptalk, Jakarta — Indonesia’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) revealed that the total volume of financial transactions linked to online gambling activities reached Rp 47 trillion (approximately US$2.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2025.
The figure represents a significant decrease from the same period in 2024, when transaction volume totaled Rp 90 trillion. The agency attributes this decline to intensified efforts by law enforcement and regulatory bodies to curb the circulation of illicit gambling funds.
“We recorded a total transaction volume of Rp 47 trillion from January to March 2025. I want to emphasize that this is the total amount of money circulating — not the amount stored — in online gambling accounts,” PPATK Chairman Ivan Yustiavandana said during a press briefing at the National Police Headquarters on Wednesday (05/07).
Ivan explained that the data was obtained through a comprehensive monitoring system involving hundreds of banks and thousands of payment gateway services. These systems are directly connected to PPATK, enabling real-time detection and analysis of suspicious transactions.
Coordinated Crackdown
According to Ivan, the notable reduction in online gambling activity was the result of cross-agency collaboration, including the National Police, the Financial Services Authority (OJK), and other key institutions.
“This is an extraordinary outcome, a testament to the collective effort of investigators and institutions involved. The drop in transaction volume is both significant and measurable,” he stated.
He added that the number of accounts used for online gambling purposes also declined over the same period, indicating a successful disruption of the financial networks used by illegal gambling operators.
Severe Social Impact
Beyond the financial implications, Ivan warned of the severe social consequences associated with online gambling. He cited numerous cases of families falling into disarray due to financial losses incurred through gambling.
“We’ve encountered tragic stories — students unable to pay their school fees, suicides due to debt from online loans, divorces, families unable to afford basic necessities. These are not just statistics; they are real human suffering caused by gambling addiction,” he said.
Ivan reiterated that combating online gambling is not only a matter of financial regulation but also a social responsibility.
Future Measures
Moving forward, PPATK intends to strengthen its transaction monitoring capabilities and continue working closely with relevant stakeholders to identify, block, and dismantle gambling-related financial networks.
“This is a long-term effort that demands consistency, collaboration, and technological advancement. We are committed to protecting the public from the destructive impact of illegal online gambling,” Ivan concluded.
