North Sumatra Intensifies Anti-Drug Patrols in Asahan

ASAHAN | INDATANEWS.COM - The Governor of North Sumatra, Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, has mobilized joint forces comprising the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) to intensify patrols across strategic areas. The initiative aims to curb drug distribution routes and suppress rising youth-related crime in North Sumatra.

The provincial government has designated Asahan Regency as a key monitoring area due to its strategic geographic position. With both coastal and land access routes, the region is considered vulnerable to cross-border drug trafficking networks.

Head of Satpol PP North Sumatra, Moettaqien Hasrimi, recorded 150 drug-related cases in Asahan between January and May 2026. The figure has prompted authorities to significantly strengthen security presence in the area.

Joint Night Patrols Target High-Risk Areas

On Saturday evening, June 6, 2026, Moettaqien led a joint deployment briefing at the Asahan Regency Office complex. He emphasized the need for swift, coordinated, and decisive action among all involved agencies to suppress drug circulation.

"The field data shows an urgency that can no longer be delayed," he stated during the official coordination meeting.

Following the briefing, joint forces conducted inspections across several high-risk zones, particularly nightlife entertainment venues known for large gatherings.

Visitors were registered and subjected to random urine tests. Authorities confirmed that all test results returned negative for narcotics use.

These measures are part of a preventive strategy to stop the spread of drugs, especially among young people.

Strengthening Border Control and Social Protection

The provincial government highlighted that North Sumatra's extensive coastline presents significant security challenges, often exploited by criminal networks for drug smuggling activities.

To address this, combined units from Satpol PP, TNI, Polri, and BNN have increased both land-based patrols and surveillance of suspected entry points.

In addition to drug-related concerns, Moettaqien also warned about the growing threat of online gambling, which he said contributes to social instability and risky behavior among youth.

"The safety and future of our young generation are at stake. Community awareness is crucial," he added.

Community Participation Urged

Moettaqien called on the public to actively support efforts to maintain security in their surroundings, stressing that drug prevention and social control cannot be handled by government institutions alone.

He underscored the importance of family and community roles in protecting youth from drugs and online gambling.

Kesbangpol North Sumatra Head, Mulyono, also expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration.

The provincial government confirmed that patrol operations will be expanded beyond Asahan to other vulnerable regions in stages, aiming to sustainably reduce drug-related crime and ensure a safer environment for residents. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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