Indonesian Military Thwarts Smuggling of 6 Sacks of Second-Hand Clothing in RI–East Timor Border

Rat routes or unofficial paths along the Indonesia–Timor Leste border have once again been exploited by irresponsible parties to smuggle illegal goods. Amid the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri atmosphere, personnel from the RI–RDTL Border Task Force Eastern Sector, Yonarmed 12 Kostrad, continue to enhance surveillance in the border region.

The smuggling attempt was successfully thwarted on Tuesday night (24/3/2026) in Silawan Village, East Tasifeto Subdistrict, Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

Commander of the RI–RDTL Border Task Force Eastern Sector Yonarmed 12 Kostrad, Lieutenant Colonel Arm Erlan Wijatmoko, explained that the operation began with routine patrols by personnel from Silawan Post in the border area known for its high vulnerability.

“This foiling stemmed from routine patrols conducted by Silawan Post personnel in the early hours in a high-risk border sector. During the sweep, members discovered suspicious items hidden behind bushes and trees,” he told Media Indonesia on Wednesday (25/3/2026).

“Upon inspection, six sacks of ballpress second-hand clothing were found, strongly suspected to be smuggled into Indonesian territory without official procedures. The evidence was ultimately seized by the officers and brought to the local checkpoint,” he continued.

Based on field observations by the officers, Silawan Village has long been known as a smuggling hotspot due to the abundance of unofficial routes frequently used by illegal cross-border actors.

This successful foiling adds to the list of achievements by the Yonarmed 12 Kostrad Border Task Force in eradicating the circulation of illegal goods in the border region. Since the beginning of 2026, the total evidence seized has reached 235 sacks of second-hand clothing ballpress.

All evidence is now secured at the Task Force Command Headquarters for further inventory processing. In accordance with procedures, the Task Force only has the authority to secure the goods and conduct initial examinations, while subsequent legal processes are handed over to the Customs authorities.

Erlan emphasised that the Eid al-Fitr momentum does not diminish the soldiers’ alertness in safeguarding the state’s sovereignty, particularly in vulnerable areas for cross-border violations.

“Amid the Lebaran atmosphere, we continue to prioritise vigilance, especially in high-risk areas like Silawan with many unofficial routes. Surveillance will be further enhanced to prevent any potential violations from the outset,” he asserted.