Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian Navy intercepted a massive 1.4-ton shipment of illegal cyanide originated from the Philippines at Bitung Ferry Port, North Sulawesi, on Wednesday. 

During a routine inspection of vehicles disembarking from the KMP Labuhan Haji ferry, a Navy team and Customs officers discovered 29 sacks of the hazardous chemical concealed within a green logistics truck traveling the Talaud–Bitung route.

"This unauthorized cargo lacked official documentation, posing a severe risk to maritime safety and passenger welfare," Indonesian Navy Deputy Commander First Admiral Tony Herdijanto confirmed on Saturday (7/3/2026), as cited by antaranews.com.

Preliminary investigations suggested the hazardous substances, entering Indonesia via Melonguane before being smuggled toward Bitung. Each 50-kilogram sack lacked the specialized handling required for dangerous chemicals, violating international shipping protocols. 

The seized evidence is currently held at the Navy headquarters in North Sulawesi for further legal action. 

(mg/inp/pr/rs)