By: Linda Putri*
Efforts to eradicate drugs in Indonesia have become the main focus of various groups, especially with the increasingly solid synergy between the National Police, BNN, local governments, and the wider community. The Asta Cita program from President Prabowo Subianto, especially the seventh point which emphasizes legal reform and prevention of drug smuggling, has become an important guideline for the National Police and related institutions to strengthen the national strategy in combating illicit drug trafficking. The results of this hard work are reflected in the success of the authorities in uncovering hundreds of narcotics cases and confiscating tons of evidence, an achievement that deserves to be appreciated as proof of the state’s commitment to protecting the younger generation from the dangers of drugs.
Commissioner General Wahyu Widada, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Indonesian National Police, emphasized that eradicating drugs is now the priority focus of the Indonesian National Police in supporting Asta Cita. From the results of the joint operation that took place from September to October, the Criminal Investigation Unit succeeded in uncovering an international drug network operating in various provinces in Indonesia. The operation succeeded in saving millions of lives that would have been at risk due to these illicit goods. The Indonesian National Police will apply the Money Laundering Crime (TPPU) article to destroy the economic network of drug dealers, demonstrating the determination of the authorities in eliminating the negative impacts of drugs in all aspects of people’s lives.
In addition to the police’s firm actions, prevention and education efforts are also carried out at the local level. In the Riau Islands, for example, Brigadier General Hanny Hidayat, Head of the BNNP Kepri, is committed to making the Muka Kuning area, which is known as a center for drug trafficking, into a drug-free area through the “Muka Kuning Bersinar” (Clean from Drugs) program. This campaign is supported by various public figures and Indonesian artists who voice the message of a healthy life without drugs. The support from these public figures strengthens the BNNP Kepri campaign, thereby building awareness in the community about the dangers of drugs and the need to maintain the health and future of the nation.
The Indonesian National Police are not only focused on arresting perpetrators but also on cutting off drug distribution channels from abroad, which involves synergy with Customs, Water Police, and other related institutions. This step is very important considering the high number of drug trafficking entering through land, sea, and air routes. In the next 100 days, the Indonesian National Police plan to implement a special work program to resolve villages that are centers of drug trafficking in a more collaborative and comprehensive manner. By involving various parties, the government hopes to create deterrence and prevention in communities that are vulnerable to the dangers of drugs.
Synergy between institutions in eradicating drugs is not only a national priority, but also shows Indonesia’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive environment for the community. Collaboration with agencies such as Customs, the Attorney General’s Office, as well as strict supervision of financial flows creates a broader impact in eradicating drug networks. In addition, prevention efforts continue to be strengthened through campaigns involving the community, both in educational environments, offices, and in areas prone to drugs.
The government’s success in uncovering various drug cases in the country is proof that drug eradication requires collective commitment and full support from all elements of the nation. In this case, the role of community leaders, religious leaders, and youth leaders is important as agents of change who can help prevent and reject the entry of drugs into the environment. Moral and social support from various groups can increase the government’s strength in closing opportunities for drug trafficking.
Meanwhile, in a broader scope, synergy between security forces and the community must continue to be improved. Eradication of drugs in drug-prone village environments, such as those currently being implemented in the Riau Islands, is an example of how a community-based approach can create effective resistance to the spread of drugs. Brigadier General Hanny Hidayat emphasized the importance of cooperation between the community and the authorities in making Kampung Aceh drug-free. According to him, crime due to drug abuse has a major impact on investment and economic development in the region. Therefore, creating a safe and drug-free environment will also support economic development and the welfare of the local community.
Eradicating drugs is not only the task of law enforcement officers, but also a shared responsibility for all Indonesian people. President Prabowo Subianto through the Asta Cita program has provided a strong foundation for legal reform, including eradicating drugs. Synergy between all parties involved in law enforcement and support from the community are important keys to the success of this effort. With the spirit of mutual cooperation, Indonesia has a great opportunity to overcome the challenges of drugs and protect the future of the next generation.
Ultimately, drug eradication in Indonesia is a form of commitment to create a healthy and productive society, free from the threat of destructive drugs. By strengthening synergy between the authorities, the community, and public figures, Indonesia can build strong resistance to drugs. In line with the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045, a society free from drugs will be a solid foundation for achieving the nation’s ideals.
*The author is a student majoring in Criminology
