Customs Destroys 631,000 Illegal Cigarettes and 25.6 Litres of Alcoholic Beverages Worth Billions
The Maluku Regional Customs Office (Kanwil Bea Cukai Maluku), in collaboration with Ternate Customs, destroyed 631,320 illegal cigarettes and 25.6 litres of illicit beverages containing ethyl alcohol on Tuesday (28/7/2026). The total value of the destroyed goods was estimated at Rp 1,182,607,000, with potential state revenue losses amounting to Rp 697,863,490 successfully prevented. The destroyed illegal excisable goods were the result of enforcement actions in 2025 and had been officially designated as state property, with approval for destruction granted in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations.
The destruction was led by the Head of the Maluku Regional Customs Office, Estty Purwadiani Hidayatie, and attended by law enforcement officials, representatives from Ministry of Finance agencies, local government officials, and media partners. In her remarks, Estty stressed that the circulation of illegal excisable goods not only causes state revenue losses but also creates an unfair business environment for compliant entrepreneurs.
“Customs is fully committed to safeguarding the state’s financial rights while fostering a legal and fair business climate. Without fairness in business, legal industries and state finances will be eroded by the rampant circulation of illegal goods,” Estty stated on Wednesday (29/7/2026). She added that the destruction was not merely about eliminating illicit products, but also served as a form of transparency and accountability. “This is tangible proof of our commitment and transparency in carrying out supervisory duties. It is our accountability to the public that every violation of customs and excise laws will be dealt with firmly according to the provisions,” she asserted.
Estty noted that the successful enforcement was the result of synergy among various parties, including law enforcement agencies, local governments, and the media’s role in educating the public. She concluded by inviting all stakeholders to continuously strengthen collaboration to eradicate the circulation of illegal excisable goods. “Eradicating illegal excisable goods requires continuous collective cooperation. We urge all parties to keep strengthening synergy so that North Maluku can become a region free from illegal goods, safe, and prosperous,” she said. Through this activity, Customs hopes to increase public awareness of the dangers and impacts of illegal excisable goods, thereby creating a healthy business climate, protecting compliant industries, and optimising state revenue to support national development.