BNNP Kepri alerts to drug trafficking through sea and air routes

Batam — Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency for Riau Islands Province (BNNP Kepri) has heightened vigilance against drug trafficking and abuse through sea and air routes in the region.

Senior Investigator Bravo Asena of BNNP Kepri stated in Batam on Friday that maritime and air transport remain the primary choice for drug traffickers and abusers to move contraband to other areas.

“It is evident that air and maritime transport routes remain the preferred option for drug trafficking and abuse perpetrators,” Bravo said.

He explained that during the January to February 2026 period, BNNP Kepri had uncovered four drug-related cases at airports and ports. One case was discovered at Batu Ampar Port, two cases at Raja Ali Fisabilillah Port, and one case at Hang Nadim Batam Port.

Traffickers typically transport drugs in suitcases, he noted, hiring couriers for between 10 to 25 million rupiah per kilogramme.

“From these four drug cases, we arrested six suspects operating as couriers, comprising five males and one female,” he stated.

Bravo noted that Riau Islands Province’s strategic position, directly bordering neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore, makes it vulnerable to becoming a transit and distribution route for narcotics.

“We urge all citizens not to be enticed into becoming transporters or senders of drugs. Both routes will inevitably be chosen to accelerate deliveries from various regions,” he warned.

Among the six suspects, he said, the majority had a maximum secondary education level and belonged to lower-to-middle income economic classes.