Food Task Force Police Monitors Food Prices and Stock in Lubuk Linggau Ahead of Eid
Ahead of Eid, the food task force of Lubuk Linggau Police Station tightened monitoring of prices, availability of basic commodities, and circulation of dangerous food items. This measure was taken to maintain price stability, ensure safe supply, and protect the public from potential food-related crimes ahead of Eid celebrations.
The operation was conducted on Tuesday 10 March 2026, led by Head of Criminal Investigation Section AKP M. Kurniawan Azwar and Specialist in Special Crimes IPDA Dodi Rislan. Monitoring was carried out through preventive and repressive measures at several trading centres, namely Pasar Inpres Lubuk Linggau, Pasar Satelit Lubuk Linggau, and Pasar Simpang Priuk.
From field inspections, the food task force found that basic commodity prices in Lubuk Linggau remained relatively stable overall, and stock availability was in safe condition. However, officers identified two commodities priced above reference rates: red chilli sold at approximately IDR 75,000 per kilogramme against a reference price of IDR 57,000 per kilogramme, and granulated sugar at around IDR 18,000 per kilogramme against a reference price of IDR 17,500 per kilogramme.
Price increases for these two commodities were attributed to rising public demand ahead of Eid. However, supply-side availability of both commodities remained adequate, and this did not yet disrupt general public needs.
Beyond monitoring prices and basic commodity stocks, the food task force also took repressive action against suspected food sector violations. During the operation, officers secured food products in the form of yellow noodles suspected of containing the hazardous substance formalin and produced by a food business operator.
Based on initial inspection, the yellow noodles displayed characteristics of more elastic texture, did not spoil easily, and had a pungent odour, indicating the use of hazardous preservatives. Rapid test results also showed the product tested positive for the chemical formalin. The product was then secured as evidence for laboratory testing purposes and further investigation into its production source and distribution channels.
The use of formalin in food products poses serious risks to public health. This chemical can cause irritation to the digestive tract, damage internal organs, and increase the risk of serious health disorders if consumed over an extended period. Consequently, the food task force emphasised that the practice of using hazardous chemicals in food constitutes a legal violation that will be dealt with firmly.
Separately, dialogue results with traders showed that the majority welcomed the monitoring activities conducted by the authorities. They viewed the presence of the police food task force in markets as providing public reassurance and maintaining consumer confidence in food products sold.
Chief of Lubuk Linggau Police AKBP Adhitia Bagus Arjunadi affirmed that monitoring would be strengthened to ensure the public obtained safe, fit-for-consumption food at controlled prices.
“Going forward, the food task force of Lubuk Linggau Police will continue to enhance monitoring of food circulation from traditional markets, distributors to producers, to ensure prices remain controlled, supply is maintained, and the public is protected from dangerous food circulation, particularly ahead of the Eid momentum,” he said.
The measures taken by the food task force in Lubuk Linggau align with the government’s policy direction in strengthening food security, maintaining stability in essential commodity prices, and providing consumer protection to the public. In this context, food monitoring is not only part of law enforcement but also a form of support for the President’s programme in providing safe, healthy, and affordable food for the public.
Through continuous monitoring, the authorities hope market stability is maintained, food distribution runs smoothly, and the public can welcome Eid with peace of mind and confidence.