Saturday, 06 June 2026
MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has called on the Provincial National Narcotics Agency (BNNP Sumut) to intensify collaboration and establish a centrally coordinated intervention strategy to combat the illegal drug trade in the region. The provincial government also reaffirmed its readiness to provide financial support to ensure more effective and sustainable drug control measures.
The statement was delivered during an official audience with the Head of BNNP Sumut, Brigadier General Pol Tatar Nugroho, and his team at the Governor's Office on Jalan Diponegoro No. 30, Medan, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
"During this meeting, it is important for us to build strong cooperation in tackling drug-related crime. We must implement centralized interventions, especially in areas identified as primary entry and distribution points," Bobby Nasution said.
Targeted Intervention in High-Risk Areas
Bobby emphasized the importance of a structured approach to suppress drug trafficking in North Sumatra. He underlined that precise mapping of vulnerable areas is essential to ensure effective and targeted interventions.
He also expressed concern over the impact of drugs on the younger generation, noting that narcotics have become increasingly accessible and affordable, making them more attractive to teenagers. To address this, the provincial government plans to strengthen community-based activities and promote positive programs in heavily affected areas.
In addition, public awareness campaigns will be intensified by consistently integrating anti-drug messages into all government and community events.
Budget Support and Resource Constraints
Bobby acknowledged ongoing challenges at the provincial level, particularly the limited number of trained personnel in comprehensive drug control efforts.
Despite these limitations, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting BNNP Sumut, including potential financial assistance.
"We are requesting concrete programs from BNNP. In terms of budgeting, the provincial government will provide support. We must act seriously so that North Sumatra can truly become drug-free," he stated.
North Sumatra Remains a High-Risk Drug Region
Brigadier General Pol Tatar Nugroho revealed that North Sumatra continues to record one of the highest drug consumption rates in Indonesia.
Out of approximately 15 million residents, around 10 percent are estimated to be drug users. The spread has now reached rural areas as well.
He noted that the province's strategic geographic location makes it a key transit corridor for drug smuggling, particularly due to its proximity to several vulnerable trafficking routes.
For 2025, most cases involve individuals in the productive age group of 15 to 45 years. Alarmingly, drug abuse is also increasingly affecting school-age children.
Strengthening Surveillance to Rural Areas
Despite limited resources, BNNP Sumut continues to strengthen monitoring at key entry points and rural regions. Initial results have reportedly shown a decline in drug distribution in several areas.
"We thank the Governor for his support. We hope this meeting will strengthen concrete collaboration with the provincial government to protect the younger generation," Tatar said. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
