LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM - The leadership of the Drug Investigation Unit at the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police has undergone a change. AKP Wilson Manahan Panjaitan, S.H., M.H., has officially assumed the position of Head of the Drug Investigation Unit (Kasat Resnarkoba) at the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police, succeeding AKP Sahat Marulam Lumban Gaol, S.H.
The handover ceremony took place on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police headquarters parade ground on Jalan Lintas Sumatera, Sosopan Village, Kotapinang District, Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency.
The ceremony was led by Labuhanbatu Selatan Police Chief AKBP Rosef Efendi, S.I.K., M.H., CPHR. Also in attendance were Deputy Police Chief KOMPOL Moch Guntur Priyantoko, S.H., M.H., senior police officials, officers, administrative personnel, non-commissioned officers and other members of the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police.
The leadership change is not only part of an organizational transition but also raises new expectations for stronger efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking within the jurisdiction of the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police.
In his address, AKBP Rosef Efendi commended AKP Sahat Marulam Lumban Gaol for his service during his tenure as Head of the Drug Investigation Unit.
Rosef said the former unit chief's hard work and loyalty had made an important contribution to carrying out the police's duties, particularly in maintaining public security and combating drug abuse and trafficking.
"I thank the former unit chief for his dedication and hard work during his tenure as Head of the Drug Investigation Unit. What has been accomplished is undoubtedly an important part of the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police's duties, particularly in combating drug abuse and trafficking," Rosef said.
After leaving his position as Head of the Drug Investigation Unit at the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police, AKP Sahat Marulam Lumban Gaol was promoted to Panit I Subdit 4 of the Directorate of Drug Investigation at the North Sumatra Regional Police (Dit Resnarkoba Polda Sumut).
The promotion marks the continuation of Sahat's career within the police force. Meanwhile, AKP Wilson Manahan Panjaitan brings experience from his previous position as Head of Criminal Investigation at the Dairi Police and now takes on his new assignment in Labuhanbatu Selatan.

AKBP Rosef Efendi urged Wilson to adapt to his new working environment without delay. He also emphasized the importance of understanding the region's specific characteristics and maintaining open communication with police personnel and the community.
"To the new officeholder, I wish you a good start and success in your duties at the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police. Adapt quickly to the working environment, familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the area and maintain good communication with all police personnel and the community," he said.
According to Rosef, a comprehensive understanding of local conditions will help the head of the Drug Investigation Unit develop appropriate measures to address various drug-related problems. Coordination with police personnel and the community is also essential for gathering information and establishing more effective prevention measures.
He expressed hope that Wilson would quickly strengthen the internal cohesion of the unit while expanding communication with various elements of society. This is important because combating drugs requires the involvement of numerous stakeholders and cannot be left solely to law enforcement agencies.

Rosef also reminded Wilson and members of the Drug Investigation Unit that the drug problem has far-reaching consequences. The threat involves not only criminal offenses but also the future of the younger generation and the public's sense of security.
He therefore called on the Drug Investigation Unit to implement a balanced strategy. Law enforcement efforts against drug networks and offenders must go hand in hand with prevention and public education.
"We must continue to strengthen our efforts to combat drugs. We cannot focus solely on law enforcement measures; we must also intensify prevention and public education. Cooperation with all elements of society is very important so that we can work together to curb drug trafficking," he said.
The directive underscores the need for a long-term strategy in tackling drug-related problems. Police must pursue offenders firmly while also raising public awareness so that drug abuse can be prevented at an early stage.
The change in leadership of the Drug Investigation Unit also gives the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police an opportunity to review and further strengthen its approach to combating evolving drug-related crime. The constantly changing structures of drug distribution networks require law enforcement personnel to act professionally, swiftly and adaptively.
The police chief subsequently called on all members of the force to use the leadership transition as new momentum to improve performance, strengthen solidarity and provide the best possible public service.
"Let us make this leadership change a moment to improve our performance, strengthen our solidarity and provide the best possible service to the community. The challenges ahead will become increasingly complex. Therefore, we must work together professionally and responsibly," he concluded.
Following the handover ceremony, the event continued with a group photograph as well as a welcoming and farewell gathering. The gathering gave members of the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police an opportunity to strengthen their relationships while welcoming the new unit chief.
With the leadership transition, AKP Wilson Manahan Panjaitan now takes on a new responsibility at the helm of the Drug Investigation Unit at the Labuhanbatu Selatan Police. Strengthening law enforcement, prevention, public education and cooperation with the community will be among the key priorities shaping his tenure. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR: Fik Sagala