By Priscilla Dara Itah
The Indonesian government continues to demonstrate its commitment to eradicating international drug trafficking networks, which are becoming increasingly complex. Under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto, various strategic measures have been implemented to curb the drug trade in the country. Through the National Narcotics Agency (BNN)’s mapping of drug entry points and large-scale operations by the Narcotics Eradication Task Force, Indonesia is intensifying its efforts to dismantle these illicit networks.
During operations conducted in February 2025, law enforcement officers seized 1.2 tons of narcotics, along with 16 cars, 4 motorcycles, and 1 traditional boat used for drug distribution. Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan, revealed that this crackdown is linked to the international Golden Triangle drug network, which operates in Myanmar and Laos. To prevent similar threats, the government has tightened security in the eastern waters of Sumatra, a key smuggling route into Indonesia. In addition to seizing narcotics, authorities are also cracking down on traffickers’ financial assets to cut off their funding sources.
BNN Chief Mathinus Hukom emphasized that the agency has successfully mapped drug entry routes and movement patterns used by international cartels. With a coastline stretching 108,000 kilometers and 17,504 islands, Indonesia is a prime target for drug smuggling. One particularly vulnerable area is the Bangka Belitung Islands, which, with its 570 small islands, is highly susceptible to foreign drug shipments. Drug cartels exploit coastal routes from Aceh to Merauke as primary entry points. Additionally, border areas in West Kalimantan, North Kalimantan, Timor Leste, and Papua remain critical hotspots for smuggling.
Maritime routes continue to be the primary method for drug smuggling into Indonesia. Afghan drug cartels, for instance, frequently infiltrate the country via Sumatra’s coastline and the southern part of Java. Their method involves large-tonnage fishing vessels carrying up to 30-40 tons of illicit substances, making detection by authorities more difficult. To counter this, the government is strengthening maritime surveillance and tightening controls on fishing vessel activities to prevent further drug smuggling.
Beyond apprehending traffickers, the government is also dismantling their financial networks through enforcement of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws. The Head of the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM), Taruna Ikrar, stated that his agency plays a vital role in uncovering money laundering cases linked to narcotics. Currently, BNN is handling four money laundering cases with seized assets totaling Rp 25 billion, alongside 12 additional cases involving 13 suspects with estimated assets worth Rp 100 billion. This initiative is crucial to crippling traffickers’ financial resources, preventing them from continuing their operations.
On the international stage, BPOM actively participates in the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) under the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This forum plays a strategic role in shaping global policies on drug control. The collaboration between BPOM, BNN, and the Narcotics Eradication Task Force is expected to enhance the government’s effectiveness in stopping drug trafficking in Indonesia. Beyond law enforcement, the government also promotes prevention and rehabilitation programs to foster a healthier society free from narcotics threats.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of active prevention efforts are being intensified through various media, including print and digital platforms, to reach all levels of society. Rehabilitation programs for former drug users are also being expanded, providing higher-quality facilities and services.
At the regional level, Indonesia is strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines to combat drug trafficking from the Golden Triangle and Latin American cartels. Diplomatic efforts between agencies are also being reinforced to ensure that the government’s strategic measures are effectively implemented and sustained.
The government’s commitment to eradicating international drug networks requires full support from all sectors of society. A firm approach to law enforcement, enhanced border surveillance, and the dismantling of traffickers’ financial networks must be carried out simultaneously. Through collaboration between authorities, the government, and the public, Indonesia can become stronger in the fight against narcotics and protect future generations from the perils of drug trafficking. Collective awareness and a spirit of mutual cooperation are essential to closing loopholes that drug syndicates exploit, ensuring they no longer have room to operate in this nation.
The author is a member of the Youth Anti-Drug Movement.
