How Inspector General Sandi Oversees Firearm Ownership Among the Public in South Sumatra

Palembang — The Regional Police Chief of South Sumatra, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, has highlighted the widespread circulation and misuse of illegal firearms commonly used in various criminal offences across Indonesia.

The statement was made by the South Sumatra Police Chief during a working visit from officials of the Indonesian Shooting Association (Perbakin), South Sumatra Province, to the Police Chief’s Conference Room, Precision Building of the South Sumatra Regional Police, on Wednesday, 11 March 2026.

According to Sandi, oversight of firearm ownership and use by civilians must be conducted strictly to prevent potential misuse that could threaten public security.

“We support the development of shooting sports in South Sumatra, but oversight of firearm ownership and use must remain strict. Prevention must always be prioritised to ensure public safety,” Sandi stated.

Sandi emphasised that the circulation of illegal firearms, including improvised weapons and modified airsoft guns resembling actual firearms, poses a serious threat to public safety and order.

For this reason, Sandi instructed that regular evaluation of standard operating procedures (SOP) for firearm use be conducted, and oversight of firearm ownership by civilians be strengthened.

These measures are deemed crucial to ensure all firearm ownership is subject to proper oversight in accordance with applicable legal provisions.

During the meeting, the South Sumatra Police Chief received the Chairman of Perbakin South Sumatra, Anto Bambang Utoyo, along with other officials, including Adviser Asfan Sanaf, Treasurer Adam Sautin, Head of Response Section Seno Mahyudin, and Head of Hunting Section Alex Suhendra.