The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) has denied
allegations that hotels in Indonesia are duping overseas visitors by
falsely claiming they have tested positive to Covid while in quarantine
and need to spend time in an “isolation” hotel where they must pay for
further accommodation.
PHRI said accusations of a “quarantine mafia” operating within hotels
was incorrect and it was likely those making accusations of being
scammed were victims of “miscommunication”.
However, Indonesia’s tourism ministry and specialist police are
understood to be actively probing the claims of visitors who say they
have been subject to scams.
Twelve hotels occupied by 300 Indonesian citizens and 417 foreigners were investigated, police told local media.
The tourism ministry told the ABC in Australia it received "many
reports from foreigners who felt aggrieved by individuals who allegedly
participate in 'quarantine mafia' activities".
Separately, Bali governor Wayan Koster is urging the central
government to abolish quarantine requirements for tourists flying into
Bali, as long as they produce a negative PCR test result upon departure
from their home country and on arrival in Bali.
Bali has reopened to international travellers since 4 February, but
its extensive and costly quarantine measures continue to deter many
travellers.