"They initially claimed to be Indian citizens, but later confessed to being Sri Lankans and members of the Tamil Tiger rebels," Radja has told Jakarta Post.
Radja said the seven were arrested in a house owned by Melki Kandamete in Kelamalima village, Kupang. Four of the seven did not possess passports or immigration documents.

The suspects reportedly stopped over in the city on their way to illegally enter Australia via traditional fishing boats.