Joint Task Force Dismantles Cockfighting and Dice Gambling Arenas in Penajam Paser Utara

Following reports from residents expressing concern over ongoing gambling activities in the Lawe-Lawe and Giripurwa villages, Penajam District, Penajam Paser Utara (PPU) Regency, East Kalimantan, a joint task force conducted an enforcement operation, demolition, and destruction of cockfighting and dice gambling arenas on Monday (18/5).

The team, consisting of personnel from the Penajam Police, Penajam Military Command (Koramil), the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), and the district government, proceeded directly to the locations. Although these sites had been targeted previously, reports indicated that gambling activities had resurfaced. The operation commenced with a joint briefing at the Penajam District Office.

Penajam Police Chief AKP Syaifudin, representing Penajam Paser Utara Police Chief AKBP Andreas Alek Danantara, stated that after the briefing, the team moved to the first location in RT 003, Lawe-Lawe Village. “At that location, officers found structures suspected of being used as cockfighting and dice gambling arenas. To prevent similar activities from recurring, the buildings were immediately demolished and destroyed by fire,” he asserted.

Subsequently, the joint team continued enforcement in RT 01, Giripurwa Village, where officers demolished and destroyed several buildings used for cockfighting and dice gambling, as well as nearby coffee shops associated with the gambling area.

This operation reflects the commitment of the Indonesian National Police, alongside local governments and relevant agencies, to maintaining public security and order. The enforcement serves as a direct response to community distress regarding local gambling activities.

“We, along with relevant stakeholders, are committed to continuing enforcement against all forms of social vices that may disrupt public security and order,” he said. He further emphasised that the police will not tolerate any form of gambling, noting that such activities are not only illegal but also a catalyst for other criminal activities that disturb the peace. He urged the public to work together to keep the environment safe and to report any gambling or security disturbances immediately. “Through this enforcement, we hope to create a deterrent effect for perpetrators and minimise gambling activities in the Penajam District. Furthermore, we hope to strengthen the synergy between security forces, local government, and the community in preventing social vices.”