Disguised in Public Spaces: Why Liquid Narcotics Are Hard to Detect

The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) of Indonesia has revealed that the circulation of narcotics in liquid form is now a serious challenge because they are difficult to detect without specialised urine test kits. This new variant often disguises itself in public spaces, complicating supervision for field officers. BNN Chief, Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto, explained that the rise of narcotics types such as liquid cannabis and liquid methamphetamine demands strengthened detection technology capacity. He made the statement during a courtesy visit in Jakarta on Thursday (18/6). “For this reason, BNN continues to strive to strengthen detection technology capacity and is proposing support for budget optimisation together with Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives to face the dynamics of the circulation of these new addictive substances,” said Suyudi, as quoted from Antara on Monday (22/6). Besides focusing on detection technology, BNN is intensifying a series of activities ahead of the International Anti-Narcotics Day (HANI) commemoration, which falls on 26 June. Unlike previous years, this year’s commemoration will be filled with social action, sports, and competitions involving the wider community. Suyudi explained that BNN will also strengthen synergy with the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection. This step was taken following the trend of narcotics abuse increasingly targeting vulnerable groups, especially children and family environments. During the visit, the Acting Head of the National Narcotics Coordination Agency for the 2001 period, Da’i Bachtiar, gave appreciation and strategic input. He emphasised the importance of strengthening regulations in the law, particularly regarding the legal position of BNN investigators. “Regulatory strengthening is needed to optimise the functions of prevention, rehabilitation, and law enforcement in an integrated manner in Indonesia,” said Da’i Bachtiar. This meeting became a strategic momentum for BNN to strengthen its commitment to realising a ‘Shining Indonesia’ (Bersih Narkoba) through technological, regulatory, and cross-institutional collaboration approaches.