Jakarta, Sept. 1 -- Indonesia has deported five Chinese nationals and barred them from re-entering after authorities suspected they planned to use Indonesia as an illegal route to Australia, immigration officials said here Tuesday.

Immigration Director General Hendarsam Marantoko said authorities were strengthening oversight of foreign nationals, including suspected misuse of Indonesian territory for illegal crossings into other countries.

"Immigration is committed to safeguarding national security and sovereignty while protecting the public through professional law enforcement," Hendarsam said.

The five Chinese nationals were identified by the initials LH, 45; LJ, 54; WY, 59; XC, 40; and ZJ, 50. Their occupations included shoe factory...