Indon maids recruited by IS, one linked in Medan bombing worked in M’sia
JAKARTA: Terror groups and jihadists are suspected of recruiting domestic helpers working in foreign countries as accomplices in their missions.
According to South China Morning Post, Indonesian police are investigating a domestic helper, who previously worked in Hong Kong, over possible links to the bomb attack at the police headquarters in Medan, Sumatra last week.
The domestic helper, Ika Pusptasri, 38, worked in Hong Kong from 2004 to 2016 and Malaysia (1997 to 2002) is currently in prison after being convicted for funding and planning terror activities in 2017.
The Medan bomber, Rabbial Muslim Nasution, 24, believed to have pledged allegiance to Islamic State (IS). His wife, only known as DA, has visited Ika in prison recently.
Indonesian maids working overseas, especially in developed societies such as Hong Kong and Taiwan, have been targetted for recruitment by IS as they are considered potential sources of funds due to their steady income.
According to Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC) 2017 report, around 45 Indonesian domestic helpers had gotten involved in IS activities, funding air tickets to Syria, marrying militant fighters online while in Hong Kong.
Indonesia national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo said yesterday, 23 suspects in connection with the Medan bombing, which injured six people, have been arrested.
He said Rabbial and DA were members of the biggest IS affiliate in Indonesia, Jemaah Amsharut Daulah (JAD).
South China Morning Post
