Child Star Farel Prayoga’s Father Arrested in Gambling Probe
Singer’s Family Faces Turmoil as Police Investigate Online Betting Ring
The burgeoning career of Indonesian child singing sensation Farel Prayoga has been overshadowed by the arrest of his father, Joko Suyoto, on charges related to online gambling. The shocking development unfolded while Farel was working in Jakarta, but the young star expressed a surprising lack of surprise.
Father’s Addiction Known to Family
According to his manager, Rais Simson, Farel was aware that his father had been under police surveillance for a prolonged period due to a serious online gambling addiction. Farel and Rais traveled from Jakarta to Banyuwangi on Wednesday night, arriving Thursday morning to be with family.
“When he got word at 06.00 WIB that morning Farel was not surprised because he had been monitored for a long time. And he had been addicted for a long time,”
—Rais Simson, Manager of Farel Prayoga
The management team and Farel are fully supportive of the police investigation and hope the situation will serve as a crucial learning experience. Indonesia has seen a surge in online gambling cases, with authorities reporting a 75% increase in arrests related to online betting platforms in the first quarter of 2025 alone. The Jakarta Post
Financial Strain on Rising Star
Farel has been the primary financial provider for his family, striving to improve their living conditions. However, his father’s actions have jeopardized that future. The arrest is expected to act as a deterrent, prompting Joko Suyoto to reflect on the devastating impact of his behavior.
Joko Suyoto was apprehended at his home in Banyuwangi while Farel was away on work commitments. The case has sent ripples through the local community, given Farel’s widespread popularity.
Joko Suyoto is currently being held at the Banyuwangi police station and faces charges under Article 303 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, which carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of Rp. 25 million.
The situation presents a stark contrast to Farel’s recent success and highlights the challenges faced by young performers navigating family issues while building their careers.