North Sumatra Provincial Government Conducts Joint Patrols to Eradicate Drugs in Asahan
The North Sumatra Provincial Government (Pemprov Sumut) has organised joint patrols involving personnel from the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), and the National Narcotics Board (BNN) to eradicate drug trafficking in Asahan Regency, North Sumatra.
“Following the Governor’s instructions, we conducted patrols in several areas, including drug entry points and regions prone to juvenile delinquency, on Saturday (6/6) night,” said the Head of North Sumatra Provincial Satpol PP, Moettaqien Hasrimi, at the Asahan Regent’s Office on Sunday.
He continued that this step is an effort to strengthen the prevention and eradication of narcotics while protecting the younger generation from various forms of social deviation. This action follows data from January to May 202_ [sic], which recorded 150 drug cases in Asahan.
Geographically, Asahan’s location on the eastern coast of Sumatra provides a strategic position with a 56-kilometre coastline facing the Malacca Strait. This condition creates vulnerability, as it is frequently exploited by both domestic and international drug syndicates as a smuggling route. “The figures on the ground demonstrate an urgency that cannot be delayed,” said Moettaqien.
Consequently, the North Sumatra Provincial Government, alongside relevant agencies, conducted joint patrols targeting several locations, particularly nightlife venues in Asahan. At each visited location, joint personnel conducted data collection and urine tests on visitors. “The results of the examinations showed that all tested samples were negative, and no visitors were found to be positive for drug use,” he stated.
In addition to drug trafficking, Moettaqien also warned that online gambling (judol) is an issue that requires serious attention in Asahan. He noted that teenagers addicted to online gambling are at risk of falling into drug abuse and committing crimes to obtain money. “The security and safety of our younger generation are currently at stake. Therefore, environmental awareness and the supervision of teenagers are extremely important,” he said.
He also called upon all elements of the Asahan community to play an active role in maintaining the social environment and the future of the youth. “We urge the entire community to be more attentive to their surroundings, as our teenagers are our collective responsibility,” concluded Moettaqien.