Effectiveness of Law Enforcement Against Online Gambling Practices in Indonesia in Supporting the Achievement of SDGs

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of law enforcement measures taken by the Indonesian government to combat online gambling and assess their contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality). Theoretical Framework: The study is grounded in theories of law enforcement, digital governance, and SDG compliance, emphasizing the role of legal interventions in addressing social issues like online gambling and its impacts on societal equity and justice. Method: A qualitative research approach was used, including documentation analysis, interviews with law enforcement agencies and affected communities, and data analysis of law enforcement outcomes. The study evaluates three main strategies: freezing gambling-related accounts, addressing illegal account trading, and restricting gambling-related top-up transactions. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that law enforcement measures have led to several notable successes, including the freezing of thousands of gambling accounts and curbing the sale of gambling accounts within communities. However, challenges in monitoring digital gambling activities and ensuring sustainable oversight persist. Digital space complexities hinder effective enforcement, suggesting the need for innovative solutions. Research Implications: This study highlights the importance of adaptive law enforcement strategies and stricter regulations in the digital era. It suggests that new models, such as limiting access to gambling-related financial transactions, could enhance policy effectiveness in combating online gambling. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the understanding of law enforcement practices in the context of online gambling in Indonesia. It proposes new enforcement approaches, offering valuable insights for policymakers and researchers seeking to align legal strategies with the SDGs.