inp.polri.go.id - Medan. North Sumatra Governor Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution expressed his appreciation for the joint team's uncovering of the alleged smuggling of 1.16 tons of ketamine in the Malacca Strait.
Bobby expressed his appreciation during a press conference at the Bandar Deli Passenger Terminal, Belawan, Medan, on Friday (10/23/2026). The event was attended by the Indonesian National Police (INP) Chief General Suyudi Ario Seto, law enforcement officials, local government officials, and several community members.
On the occasion, Bobby stated that drug distribution and abuse remain serious problems in North Sumatra. He hopes that the uncovering of this large-scale case will be followed by consistent and sustainable eradication efforts.
"We hope that the disclosure of this case will be a sustainable step to narrow the scope for drug smuggling networks, particularly through waterways bordering other countries," said Bobby.
He also highlighted the Belawan region, which still faces drug trafficking issues. According to him, the Chief of INP's presence in the region is expected to further strengthen coordination between the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum, the Indonesian National Military (TNI), INP, local governments, and the community in preventing and eradicating drug trafficking.
Bobby emphasized that drug eradication efforts cannot rely solely on law enforcement. The involvement of all elements of society is necessary to protect the younger generation, maintain security, and create an environment free from drug abuse.
He hopes this success will be a concrete step towards disrupting drug smuggling networks, particularly through maritime routes.
Meanwhile, INP Chief General Suyudi Ario Seto emphasized the importance of cross-agency cooperation in combating transnational crime, including drug smuggling by sea.
The discovery of the alleged smuggling of approximately 1.16 tons of ketamine was the result of a joint operation involving the National Police, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, and elements of TNI.
The operation was conducted through intelligence analysis and monitoring of the movements of vessels suspected of conducting irregular activities in the waters of the Malacca Strait.
"No single institution can work alone. We must continue to work together to uncover the crimes of perpetrators attempting to bring prohibited goods into Indonesia," Suyudi emphasized.
He also highlighted the issue of drug abuse in North Sumatra. He stated that addressing this problem requires strengthening prevention efforts, taking action against distribution networks, and increasing public awareness.
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