BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM - The Narcotics Investigation Unit of the Polresta Barelang destroyed confiscated narcotics in Batam on Wednesday, September 17, 2026. The evidence came from investigations into 14 police reports and was destroyed during a press conference held in the lobby of the Polresta Barelang Police Headquarters. The measure formed part of law enforcement transparency while also underscoring the police's commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking within the jurisdiction of Polresta Barelang.
The event began at around 11:50 a.m. local time and was led by Polresta Barelang Chief Kombes Pol. Anggoro Wicaksono, represented by the head of the Polresta Barelang Narcotics Investigation Unit, Kompol Dr. Arsyad Riyandi. On the occasion, Arsyad explained the results of the investigations and detailed the confiscated narcotics, which were subsequently destroyed in accordance with applicable legal provisions.The press conference was also attended by the head of the Batam City National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Kombes Pol. I Gede Nakti Widhiarta; chairman of the Kepri Granat organization, Syamsul Paloh; representatives of the Batam Customs Office, Batam Prosecutor's Office, Batam District Court, legal representatives of the suspects, and representatives of the Batam Correctional Institution.
The presence of various agencies demonstrated inter-institutional cooperation in combating narcotics abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Batam. Cooperation among these institutions plays an important role in handling drug-related offenses, from case investigations through legal proceedings against suspects.Police arrested 15 suspects in connection with all of the cases. They consisted of 11 men and four women. In accordance with applicable provisions during the investigation process, police identified the suspects using initials.
The confiscated evidence consisted of various types of narcotics and substances containing etomidate. The seized items included 98.42 grams of crystal methamphetamine contained in nine packages, 279.25 grams of marijuana in 303 packages, 148 ecstasy tablets with a net weight of 59.56 grams, and 164 units of vape liquid containing etomidate with a total weight or volume of 430.77 grams or milliliters.Based on an estimated economic value, the total value of the confiscated evidence reached approximately Rp540.6 million. The estimated value of the crystal methamphetamine was around Rp95 million, marijuana approximately Rp14 million, ecstasy around Rp103.6 million, and etomidate-containing vape liquid approximately Rp328 million.
The total value illustrates the significant economic worth of the illegal substances seized by authorities. In addition to preventing their redistribution, destroying the evidence is also part of the legal process. The measure is intended to ensure that evidence subject to a legally authorized destruction order does not return to circulation in the community.
Kompol Arsyad said the Polresta Barelang Narcotics Investigation Unit continues to conduct investigations and inquiries to uncover illicit drug trafficking networks operating in Batam.
According to Arsyad, the investigation of the 14 police reports was also supported by various agencies. Polresta Barelang worked with the Batam Customs Office in investigating drug trafficking. Information provided by members of the public also helped law enforcement officers identify indications of narcotics abuse and illicit distribution.Police continue to analyze information obtained during the investigations and the results of their casework to identify distribution channels and networks linked to drug-related offenses. The measures are not directed solely at users but also at individuals involved in the distribution and illicit trafficking of prohibited substances.
Based on an analysis by investigators, the destruction of the evidence is estimated to have prevented potential abuse involving around 4,100 people. The calculation was based on an assumed consumption quantity for each gram of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, ecstasy tablets, and etomidate-containing vape liquid.The figure represents an estimated number of people who could potentially have come into contact with the substances had the confiscated drugs returned to circulation. Police therefore consider both the investigation of the cases and destruction of the evidence relevant to preventing narcotics abuse in Batam and the Riau Islands Province.
At the same time, the figure is an estimate based on the calculation method used by investigators and does not represent a directly established number of actual users involved in these cases.
Police identified a total of 15 suspects in the cases. Their initials and ages are A, 32; R, 41; S, 29; M, 35; D, 27; F, 30; H, 38; I, 26; T, 33; Y, 31; P, 28; N, 24; E, 36; L, 34; and K, 25.
Investigators are applying several legal provisions against the suspects. These include Article 609 paragraph 1 letter a and paragraph 2 letter a, as well as Article 609 paragraph 1 letter b and paragraph 2 letter b of Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 1 of 2023 concerning the Criminal Code (KUHP), as amended by Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 1 of 2026 concerning amendments to criminal law, in conjunction with Article 114 paragraph 1 of Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics.The potential penalties for the suspects vary depending on the provisions applied. Under the provisions cited in the cases, the prison terms range from 10, 12, and 15 years to a maximum of 20 years. Additional fines ranging from a minimum of Rp200 million to a maximum of Rp2 billion may also be imposed.
The application of multiple criminal provisions will be further examined and implemented throughout the proceedings in accordance with the respective authorities of the law enforcement agencies involved. The suspects remain in the investigation and judicial process in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.Arsyad emphasized that Polresta Barelang would continue strengthening preventive and repressive measures to combat drug trafficking networks. Police also urged members of the public to actively participate and report information if they encounter indications of narcotics abuse or illicit drug trafficking.
He said public participation is necessary to create a safe, healthy, and drug-free environment in Batam. Residents can report information about criminal offenses, narcotics abuse, or emergencies requiring an immediate police response.To make reporting easier, residents can use the 110 police emergency number. The service is available free of charge around the clock and allows members of the public to submit reports and information requiring a prompt police response.
Through case investigations, the destruction of confiscated evidence, and strengthened cooperation with various agencies and the public, Polresta Barelang is continuing its law enforcement efforts against drug trafficking in Batam. Police are also relying on public participation as part of joint efforts to prevent narcotics from entering and spreading throughout society. (IDNC)REPORTER: Dalil Harahap | EDITOR: Fik Sagala