EFEKTIVITAS PENEGAKAN HUKUM TERHADAP PELAKU TINDAK PIDANA JUDI ONLINE DI KOTA SURABAYA (ANALISIS STUDI KASUS POLRESTABES SURABAYA)

Abstract

This research discusses the effectiveness of law enforcement against perpetrators of online gambling crimes in Surabaya, using a case study of the Surabaya Metropolitan Police (Polrestabes Surabaya). The background of this study is based on the increasing number of online gambling cases, despite efforts by law enforcement authorities to combat them. The purpose of this research is to determine the extent of the effectiveness of law enforcement actions and to identify the obstacles faced by the police in the enforcement process. This study uses an empirical juridical method with a qualitative approach, supported by primary data obtained from interviews with investigators and perpetrators, as well as secondary data from relevant laws and regulations. The results indicate that law enforcement is carried out procedurally through the stages of investigation, seizure of electronic evidence, and submission of case files to the prosecutor’s office. However, several challenges remain, such as the use of VPNs to conceal the offender’s location, fake bank accounts to disguise financial flows, and low legal awareness among the public, who often view online gambling as mere entertainment. The study concludes that although the police have implemented proper enforcement efforts, the overall effectiveness remains suboptimal. Improvements are needed in terms of regulatory updates, enhanced investigator capacity, and continuous legal education for the public.