Inp.polri.go.id - Ambon. The Ambon Sub-regional Police conducted operations to manage the flow of riders heading to Negeri Mamala and Morella, Leihitu District, Central Maluku Regency (Malteng), for the traditional "pukul sapu" event.

"We're inspecting every two-wheeler, focusing mainly on young people," said Second Inspector M. Ladoangin, Ambon Police's Raid Team Leader, on Wednesday (17/4/2024).

Security measures were extended beyond the event location to various checkpoints, including Tibang Hamlet in Negeri Hitu Messing.

The joint team from Ambon Island and Lease Islands Regional Police aimed to ensure attendees were free from alcoholic beverages  and dangerous items.

"We request permission to inspect vehicles. If alcohol is found, we confiscate it immediately," said Second Inspector Ladoangin.

The "pukul sapu" tradition involves the use of "sapu lidi," which are sticks made from coconut or palm leaves, to hit or strike objects symbolically.  Itoccurs annually seven days after Eid al-Fitr, listed on the Maluku Province Tourism calendar.

(mg/fa/pr/nm)