Friday, 31 July 2026
BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM ~ Batam Customs successfully thwarted a smuggling attempt involving illegal drugs and a vape cartridge containing the anesthetic Etomidate at the Batam Centre International Ferry Terminal. The operation took place on Sunday evening, February 22, 2026, during a routine inspection.
Routine Check Leads to Suspicious Passenger
The seizure occurred when the K-9 team was screening luggage and passengers of the MV MDM Express 09 ferry arriving from Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. Around 7:15 p.m., a male passenger identified by the initials "S" was flagged for suspicion.
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A follow-up X-ray scan and a thorough physical inspection, combined with a urine test, revealed positive results for methamphetamine and amphetamine. Further examination uncovered two packages strapped to the suspect's body, a method commonly known as "body strapping."
Drugs, Ecstasy, and Etomidate Confiscated
Laboratory analysis confirmed the findings: one package contained 52 grams of crystalline methamphetamine, while the second held 14 Ecstasy tablets and three broken tablets totaling 7.2 grams.
Authorities also secured a vape cartridge containing 8.8 grams of Etomidate, an anesthetic increasingly misused recreationally.
The suspect, along with all confiscated evidence, was handed over to Barelang Police for further legal action. Under Indonesia's Narcotics Law No. 35/2009, he faces severe penalties, potentially including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Focus on Protecting the Younger Generation
Agung Widodo, Head of Batam Customs Type B, emphasized the agency's commitment to tightening border control. Officials estimate that the interception prevented potential drug exposure for approximately 318 young people and could save the state around 508 million Rupiah in rehabilitation costs.
As the frontline agency for border security, Batam Customs continues to intensify inspections at all international entry points, aiming to ensure public safety and safeguard national sovereignty against illegal trade. (IDNC)
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