Victimology Analysis of Umrah Travel Agency Fraud Cases in Indonesia

Abstract

The exploitation of public interest in Umrah by certain individuals or entities for fraudulent purposes is a prevalent phenomenon. Typically, the prevailing method employed in fraudulent activities is the offer of reduced fees. During the period from 2011 to 2018, Indonesia had multiple instances of fraudulent activities or criminal acts related to Umrah trip. The predominant modus operandi of Umrah fraud typically revolves around the provision of low-cost Umrah packages. The discovery of fraudulent activities disguised as Umrah operations was initiated by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) upon detecting strange and atypical transactions conducted by the company. The Umrah travel agency employs a Ponzi scheme as a means of conducting its business operations, wherein monies obtained from subsequent victims are utilised to finance the travel expenses of prior victims, hence ensuring the coverage of all associated costs. This paper employs a descriptive qualitative methodology. The data gathering process in this study involved conducting a comprehensive review of relevant literature, including reports, documents, prior research, books, scientific works, national and international journals, and other scholarly sources. The perceived effectiveness of state measures addressing crime victims is diminished due to a lack of coherence and support among existing rules. It is imperative to give precedence to the ideas of restorative justice, particularly in relation to individuals who have been victimised by fraudulent activities. The victim's experience of recurrent victimisation, including fraud and the cancellation of their Umrah trip, resulted in psychological pressure. This pressure was exacerbated by the fact that the victim had already undertaken rituals and expressions of gratitude in preparation for the Umrah journey. It is anticipated that there will be a harmonisation of regulations and supervisory functions between the Indonesian Ministry of Religion and the OJK, along with a shared understanding among law enforcement officials and experts. This alignment is crucial to ensure that these entities prioritise the welfare of victims in the execution of their responsibilities. Keywords: fraud, umrah, victims