What is far more important is the state’s ability to detect, stop and dismantle the international network smuggling illegal goods,
Batam, Riau Islands (ANTARA) – Indonesia will not be allowed to serve as a transit hub, storage depot, or destination market for illegal goods entering through transnational crime networks, Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago warned.
The minister made the statement during the destruction of 1.3 tons of illicit ketamine seized in a major maritime interdiction at the Batam IV Naval Regional Command Headquarters in the Riau Islands on Wednesday.
“This sends a message to all parties that Indonesia must not become a transit point, storage depot or market for transnational crime,” Djamari said.
He noted that Indonesia’s vast number of entry points means surveillance of maritime smuggling routes must be continuously strengthened, particularly in strategic border areas such as the Riau Islands.
“We understand that there are many entry points for illegal goods into Indonesia. What has been uncovered is only one route. Therefore, everyone must remain vigilant,” he added.
Djamari emphasized that the success of the operation should not be measured merely by the volume of contraband confiscated, but also by law enforcement’s ability to identify and dismantle international criminal networks.
“This disclosure is not just about the amount of evidence seized. What is far more important is the state’s ability to detect, stop and dismantle the international network smuggling illegal goods,” he stressed.
Also attending the event, Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali highlighted the vital role of inter-agency cooperation in protecting Indonesia’s territorial waters from maritime crime and smuggling.
Ali said joint maritime law enforcement operations had disrupted a wide range of illicit activities throughout 2026, including the trafficking of contraband and natural resources, preventing an estimated Rp12.4 trillion (US$790 million) in economic losses.
“This is the result of synergy and collaboration between agencies in combating crime and smuggling through maritime routes,” Ali said, affirming that joint patrols would continue to strengthen law enforcement across Indonesian waters.
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Translator: Amandine Nadja, Yashinta Difa
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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