Malili Customs and Satpol PP Seize 65,800 Illegal Cigarettes During Toraja Market Operation
In an effort to curb the circulation of illegal tobacco products, Malili Customs, alongside the Satpol PP (Public Order Agency) of North Toraja and Tana Toraja Regencies, conducted market operations and routine patrols from 18 to 22 May 2026. This intensified surveillance aims to protect state revenue and ensure healthy business competition.
The operation included market inspections across North Toraja and Tana Toraja, as well as integrated patrols of courier and expedition services. The surveillance also extended to other areas, including Palopo City.
During the inspections, officers discovered violations involving approximately 329 cartons, or roughly 65,800 sticks of illegal cigarettes. The estimated value of the seized goods is Rp 99,633,000, while the potential loss to the state prevented by this enforcement is estimated at Rp 59,502,307.
Enforcement against illegal cigarettes has a broad impact on society. Beyond safeguarding state revenue used to fund development programmes and public services, this oversight helps protect legitimate businesses that operate in compliance with regulations.
The Head of the Malili Customs Office, Eri Utomo Partoyo, added that in addition to enforcement, officers are prioritising an educational approach towards the public and business owners. Socialisation activities are being conducted to increase understanding regarding the prohibition of illegal tobacco circulation and the importance of complying with excise regulations.
He noted that the circulation of illegal cigarettes creates unfair competition because these products do not meet the excise obligations required of legal products.
“Officers are also placing ‘Gempur Rokok Ilegal’ (Crush Illegal Cigarettes) stickers on shops and kiosks as part of a campaign to raise public awareness regarding the impact of illegal cigarette circulation,” he said.
This educational initiative is expected to encourage community participation in identifying the characteristics of illegal cigarettes and reporting any suspected violations. Active community involvement is a crucial factor in supporting the effectiveness of field surveillance.
“The synergy between Customs and local governments through Satpol PP represents our shared commitment to strengthening oversight, suppressing illegal cigarette circulation, and protecting state revenue. We hope that these sustained preventive and repressive efforts will increase public compliance and create a healthy, law-abiding business environment,” said Eri.