East Java Regional Police are hunting a suspect identified as Erlan following the death of a Bangkalan civil servant found inside a car at Juanda International Airport.
The victim was discovered dead in a vehicle parked at the airport, prompting an investigation by the East Java Regional Police (Polda Jatim). Family members of the deceased have alleged that the victim fell prey to a “love scam,” as reported by CNN Indonesia.
Police officials describe the primary suspect, Erlan, as “agak lincah” (quite agile) in evading capture, according to statements cited by Kompas.com. The case has escalated from a suspicious death to a homicide investigation, with authorities now tracing the suspect’s movements and connections to a suspected fraud syndicate.
Investigation into the Death of Bangkalan Civil Servant
The discovery of the Bangkalan civil servant’s body inside a car at Juanda International Airport triggered an immediate response from local law enforcement. The victim held the role of Secretary of the PRKP Department in Bangkalan. The East Java Regional Police (Polda Jatim) took over the case, according to Akurat Jatim.
Initial findings suggest the death was not natural. Police have shifted the focus of the probe toward murder, identifying a specific individual named Erlan as the person of interest.
Allegations of Love Scam and Fraud Syndicate
Family members of the victim told CNN Indonesia that they suspect the victim was a target of a "love scam."
Further reports from detikNews indicate that the suspect may not be operating alone. Police are investigating whether Erlan is part of a larger fraud syndicate.
Manhunt for Erlan and Public Appeals
The suspect, Erlan, remains at large. The East Java Regional Police have characterized him as being “agak lincah” (quite agile), suggesting he is actively avoiding surveillance and changing locations to evade arrest, according to Kompas.com.
Reports from Kumparan.com highlight the emergence of a “sayembara” or reward offer for anyone who can provide actionable information leading to the capture of Erlan.
Updates will be issued as the manhunt progresses.