Joint Operation in Malang Seizes 83,500 Illegal Cigarettes

A joint operation team (Opsgab) cracking down on illegal cigarettes has again taken action against the circulation of illicit tobacco products in Malang City on Tuesday, 4 August 2026. During the operation, officers successfully seized a total of 83,500 sticks of illegal cigarettes from six targeted grocery stores.

Head of the Malang City Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP), Drs. Prayitno, M.A.P., said this joint operation represents the commitment of the Malang City Government, together with the Malang Customs Office, the Indonesian National Armed Forces, the National Police, and the District Prosecutor’s Office, to eradicate the circulation of illegal cigarettes in the Malang City area.

Prayitno explained that the operation was carried out by two teams, each targeting three shops. ‘Team A managed to secure 46,980 sticks of illegal cigarettes, while Team B secured 36,520 sticks. We hope that through this collective action, the circulation of illegal cigarettes can continue to be suppressed. We will also continue to intensify operations like this in the future,’ he said.

In addition to enforcement, Prayitno urged the public to participate in efforts to eradicate illegal cigarettes by not buying or distributing them. ‘Because reducing the circulation of illegal cigarettes will have a positive impact on the national economy while also safeguarding public health,’ he said.

He explained that the joint operation is a repressive measure carried out through cross-agency synergy. Meanwhile, preventive measures are also continuously implemented through various public awareness campaigns.

Prayitno stressed that similar operations will continue to be intensified across various areas of Malang City. The public is also encouraged to play an active role by reporting any suspected circulation of illegal cigarettes to the Civil Service Police Unit, Customs, the military, the police, or other relevant authorities.

‘The circulation of illegal cigarettes not only harms the state but can also kill off the legal cigarette business. Furthermore, it impacts regional revenue,’ he clarified. He reminded that perpetrators who sell or distribute illegal cigarettes may face sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the law. Therefore, public support is deemed essential to maintain order and support the government’s efforts to eradicate the circulation of illegal cigarettes in Malang City.