DRUG EVIDENCE SEIZED: Naval personnel from Tanjung Balai Karimun display confiscated evidence, including over one kilogram of methamphetamine and hundreds of ecstasy tablets following a smuggling interception near Takong Iyu Island waters.
BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM - The Indonesian Navy, through the IV Regional Command (Kodaeral IV) and the Tanjung Balai Karimun Naval Base, successfully thwarted a major maritime drug smuggling attempt in the waters north-east of Takong Iyu Island on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. The operation targeted a cross-border trafficking route allegedly originating from Malaysia.Acting on public intelligence regarding a suspected drug shipment from Tanjung Piai, Johor (Malaysia), toward Karimun, the Navy's Quick Response Team immediately deployed maritime surveillance and interception measures in the area. At around 11:30 a.m. local time (WIB), officers detected a high-speed fiberglass boat equipped with a 40-horsepower engine moving suspiciously from Malaysian waters and swiftly moved in to intercept it.
SUSPECT IN CUSTODY: Naval officers detain a man identified as AK (67) from Tanjung Balai Karimun along with large quantities of illegal narcotics. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Drugs Hidden in Thermos Container
Upon inspection, authorities uncovered a sophisticated concealment method. A total of 1,084 grams of methamphetamine and 582 ecstasy tablets branded "Hellcat" were found hidden inside a blue thermos container and transparent plastic packaging. Mobile phones, cash, identity documents, and the speedboat used in the operation were also seized as evidence. Joint testing by customs officers and Karimun police confirmed the substances as illegal narcotics.EVIDENCE EXAMINATION: Joint teams from customs and Karimun police inspect seized narcotics after a successful maritime operation. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Suspect Arrested and Evidence Secured
The boat operator, identified as AK (67), a resident of Tanjung Balai Karimun, was immediately detained along with the vessel and taken to the Takong Iyu Naval Post for further investigation. Authorities believe the case is linked to an international drug trafficking network exploiting maritime borders between Indonesia and Malaysia.
Commander of Kodaeral IV, Rear Admiral Berkat Widjanarko, stated that the success reflects strong inter-agency coordination and heightened maritime vigilance. He emphasized that sea borders remain a primary route for transnational drug syndicates, requiring continuous patrol enhancement to safeguard Indonesia's younger generation.
The suspect and all seized evidence are currently held at the Tanjung Balai Karimun Naval Base and will be handed over to local police for further legal proceedings. (IDNC)
