The Role of the Police in Combating Human Trafficking Crimes Based on Legal Certainty

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of the police in combating the crime of human trafficking (TPPO) against non-procedural Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) in the border area of Batam City, Riau Islands, identify weaknesses in this role, and assess the application of the principle of legal certainty in the law enforcement process. The study uses a socio-legal method with a normative and empirical approach through the study of legislation, analysis of court decisions, and interviews with investigators from the Riau Islands Regional Police, BP2MI Batam, Immigration, and victim support agencies. The results show that the police have implemented preventive efforts through sea patrols and monitoring entry and exit routes, as well as repressive efforts in the form of investigations and inquiries into TIP networks. However, several obstacles still arise, such as difficulties in proving elements of exploitation, overlapping authority between agencies, limited means of border area surveillance, and suboptimal legal protection and recovery for victims. This study recommends strengthening the regulatory framework, increasing the capacity of investigators, and strengthening cross-agency coordination to realize effective TIP prevention based on legal certainty.