Batam Police Officer Arrested by Customs for Allegedly Smuggling Etomidate Vapes
An active member of the Barelang Police District has been arrested by Tanjung Balai Karimun Customs officers following alleged involvement in an attempt to smuggle vape cartridges containing etomidate liquid from Malaysia to Indonesia.
The officer, identified by the initials JO with the rank of Briptu, was apprehended upon arrival at the Tanjung Balai Karimun International Port, Riau Islands, on Tuesday (26/5). During the search, officers discovered dozens of vape cartridges suspected of containing the substance etomidate.
The Head of Public Relations for the Riau Islands Regional Police, Senior Commissioner Nona Pricillia Ohei, confirmed the arrest. She stated that JO is an active personnel member of the Barelang Police District who is currently undergoing legal proceedings and internal investigation.
“Yes, it is true that the police officer was arrested by Tanjung Balai Karimun Customs officers,” she said on Thursday (4/6).
According to the official, in addition to facing criminal charges handled by the Karimun Police, the individual is also undergoing professional ethics examinations within the Indonesian National Police (Polri).
Based on preliminary investigations, JO allegedly brought the etomidate vape liquid from Johor, Malaysia. To evade detection by officers, the goods were reportedly hidden inside his underwear while passing through the international arrival lane.
The case came to light during routine surveillance of international passengers conducted by the Enforcement and Investigation Team (P2) of Tanjung Balai Karimun Customs. Upon inspection, officers found 50 vape cartridges suspected of containing etomidate liquid, consisting of 20 cartridges of the THUGS brand and 30 cartridges of the WANG LAI brand.
In addition to seizing the dozens of vape cartridges, officers also secured the suspect’s passport as evidence for the ongoing investigation. Law enforcement authorities are currently investigating the origins of the goods, including the possibility of a larger network involved in smuggling etomidate liquid from abroad into Indonesia.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the involvement of a police officer tasked with maintaining security and upholding the law. The Riau Islands Regional Police have emphasised that they will take firm action against any member proven to have violated the law, without exception.