Inp.polri.go.id - Banjarmasin. In anticipation of potential shortages of essential goods before Eid al-Fitr, the South Kalimantan Regional Police have established a Food and Fuel Task Force. Led by South Kalimantan Police Chief, Inspector General Winarto,  the task force has been monitoring market activities to ensure the availability of basic necessities before the festive season. Under the guidance of the Director of Criminal Investigation Unit, Senior Superintendent M. Gafur Aditya Siregar, the task force works in collaboration with relevant stakeholders such as the Department of Trade and the Food Security Agency of South Kalimantan. Chief Winarto emphasized the government's responsibility to safeguard the supply and prices of food items, recognizing their vital role in supporting the well-being of the population. He said that with the expected surge in fuel demand during Eid, particularly due to increased travel, the task force remains vigilant to prevent any disruptions in the fuel market. The task force's primary objectives include maintaining stable prices of essential goods throughout Ramadan and Eid, ensuring adequate stock levels, and cracking down on any market manipulation or criminal activities. Chief Winarto issued a reminder to distributors and wholesalers to refrain from engaging in practices that could lead to price hikes at the consumer level. Through continuous public education efforts, the task force aims to mitigate panic buying and excessive stockpiling, thereby promoting market stability and affordability for consumers. (mg/ek/pr/nm)