Dili, April 24, 2026 (Lusa) – Indonesian police have dismantled a network smuggling illegal motor vehicles into Timor-Leste, which allegedly sent 1,674 motorcycles into the country, the Indonesian news agency Antara said.

"The practice has been ongoing since January 2025," said Commissioner Kombes Julianto, director of criminal investigation for the Central Java regional police, as quoted by Antara on Wednesday.

Police data indicates that since last year, the group managed to smuggle 1,674 motorcycles, 34 cars, and 19 trucks into Timor-Leste. Commissioner Julianto said that the investigation began on 15 April after authorities intercepted two containers carrying dozens of motorcycles and cars without documentation.

As part of the investigation, officers seized more motorcycles and two trucks at a warehouse in Wonosari, Klaten district, Central Java province, allegedly destined for Timor-Leste.

Police detained two individuals, one suspected of being the financier and the other an intermediary with buyers in Timor-Leste. In total, authorities seized 46 motorcycles, four cars, and two trucks.

The vehicles were obtained through various means, after which the group produced false documents to facilitate the shipments, according to police. Authorities estimate the transaction value at approximately US$6.25 million (about €5.35 million).

MSE/RYOL // AYLS

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