Bareskrim Polri has arrested the wife and two children of notorious drug dealer Erwin Iskandar, also known as Ko Erwin, in connection with money laundering activities. The suspects were apprehended in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) and subsequently transported to Jakarta for further interrogation.
Family Members Apprehended in NTB
The suspects—Virda Virginia Pahlevi, the wife of Ko Erwin, and his children, Hadi Sumarho Iskandar and Christina Aurelia—were captured in Mataram and Sumbawa. The operation was carried out by a joint team from Subdit IV Dittipidnarkoba Bareskrim Polri and the NIC Task Force, led by Kombes Handik Zusen and Kombes Kevin Leleury.
On Friday, April 24, 2026, the three suspects arrived at the Bareskrim Polri headquarters around 17:20 WIB. Observers noted that Virda Virginia Pahlevi arrived in handcuffs, whereas both children wore black jackets and white masks to conceal their identities.
Strategic Shift to Asset Seizure
The arrests are part of a broader effort to dismantle the financial foundations of drug trafficking networks. Brigjen Eko Hadi Santoso, Director of Drug Crimes at Bareskrim Polri, stated that law enforcement is increasing its focus on Money Laundering (TPPU) to “impoverish” drug traffickers rather than just uncovering the original crime.
During the operation in NTB, investigators seized various assets believed to be the proceeds of drug trafficking. These include houses, shophouses (ruko), warehouses, several motor vehicles, and related documents.
The Broader Drug Network
Ko Erwin is identified as a major drug dealer in NTB. His operations reportedly involved high-value transactions, including two deals in January 2026 with a supplier known as Andre, alias “The Doctor.”
In these transactions, Ko Erwin paid Rp 400 million for 2 kg of crystal methamphetamine (sabu), followed by another Rp 400 million payment for 3 kg of the substance. The case has also implicated former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and former Head of Narcotics AKP Malaungi.
Potential Legal Next Steps
The three family members are expected to undergo immediate examination by investigators. A case presentation (gelar perkara) may follow to determine if the legal elements are sufficient to justify formal detention.
Bareskrim Polri could release more detailed information regarding the total value of the seized assets once the investigation into the wider syndicate is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the family members arrested in the Ko Erwin case?
The arrested individuals are Virda Virginia Pahlevi (wife), Hadi Sumarho Iskandar (son), and Christina Aurelia (daughter).
What assets were seized by the police during the operation?
Investigators seized houses, shophouses (ruko), warehouses, motor vehicles, and various documents related to money laundering.
How was Ko Erwin originally captured?
Ko Erwin was arrested on February 26, 2026, in the waters of Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, while he was attempting to flee to Malaysia.
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