Indonesia Detains Chinese National Over $14 Billion Investment Scam Linked to China
Indonesian immigration authorities have detained a 39‑year-old Chinese man, identified only by his initials LQ, in connection with a massive investment fraud case reportedly valued at more than US$14 billion.
The arrest occurred on October 1 at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, just as LQ attempted to depart for Singapore.
Indonesian officials said they were alerted by an Interpol Red Notice issued by China, prompting the detention.
Immigration Director-General Silmy Karim revealed that LQ checked into Indonesia under the alias “Joe Lin” using a Turkish passport. However, facial recognition technology at the airport flagged him when he tried to exit.
According to Chinese authorities, LQ is accused of operating a Ponzi-like investment scheme that defrauded over 50,000 people, collecting more than 100 billion yuan (approximately US$14 billion) from victims.
While his extradition or deportation is under consideration, Indonesian officials say the process could take time as they verify his identity and citizenship status.
Immigration and police officials have praised the arrest as a sign of growing international cooperation and enhanced use of biometric and data‑sharing tools in tracking fugitives.