inp.polri.go.id - Pontianak. Law enforcement officers, along with several related agencies, destroyed evidence in the alleged smuggling of illegally imported onions from various countries, which allegedly entered Indonesia through back channels across the Malaysian border.
The destruction was a manifestation of law enforcement's commitment to combating illegal trade practices that harm the state and endanger the public.
On Thursday (5/21/2026), the case was uncovered after the Smuggling Law Enforcement Task Force received information about the circulation of illegally imported onions, suspected to have originated from Malaysia.
Officers then conducted inspections at several locations and discovered the illegally imported onions in two storage warehouses.
The goods were allegedly imported without official quarantine documents, import documents, or valid trade documentation.
All evidence was then confiscated for further investigation.
Based on initial investigations, the perpetrators are suspected to have been operating the activity for approximately one year, ordering approximately eight tons of onions per week. The business turnover is estimated at approximately IDR 24.96 billion per year.
In this activity, officers destroyed 9,680 kilograms of garlic, 7,340 kilograms of onions, 2,193 kilograms of shallots, and 1,719 kilograms of onions.
Head of Sub-Directorate I of the Directorate of Special Economic Crimes at the Indonesian National Police (INP), Superintendent Derry Agung Wijaya, emphasized that the police will continue to take firm action against smuggling and illegal trade practices that harm the state and the public.
"This action demonstrates our commitment to maintaining a healthy trade system and protecting the public from the circulation of illegal goods. We will continue to collaborate with related agencies and remain consistent in monitoring and taking legal action against all parties involved," he said.
The destruction was carried out because the commodities are perishable and there are concerns that they could endanger public health if they are reintroduced.
(ad/ta/pr/rs)
