Papua Customs Launches Wallacea Net Operation to Prevent Illegal Imports
The Papua Special Customs Regional Office and the Sorong Customs Operations Base launched Operation Jaring Wallacea on Friday (9 October 2026). The operation is part of efforts to strengthen customs and excise oversight, protect the public—particularly in Papua—from the circulation of illegal imported goods, and prevent the illegal export of Indonesia’s natural resources.
Encep, head of the Papua Special Customs Regional Office, said Operation Jaring Wallacea was an important step towards strengthening oversight and fulfilling Customs’ role as a community protector. “Operation Jaring Wallacea demonstrates Customs’ commitment to carrying out its community-protection function, particularly by protecting the people of Papua from illegal imports and preventing Indonesia’s natural resources from being taken out of the country unlawfully. We continue to strengthen oversight to protect Indonesia’s natural resources and ensure trade complies with applicable regulations,” he said.
Through the operation, Customs is increasing surveillance of goods in transit, both those entering Indonesia and those being sent abroad. The oversight is expected to prevent customs and excise violations and help safeguard national interests.
Papua occupies a strategic position and its geographical characteristics require robust oversight. The operation is therefore part of Customs’ efforts to heighten vigilance against potential violations, including the smuggling of imported goods and the illegal removal of Indonesia’s natural resources.
“Co-operation between the Papua Special Customs Regional Office and the Sorong Customs Operations Base is essential to supporting field surveillance. With operational resources and coordination between work units, Customs is seeking to carry out its oversight duties effectively and within its authority,” Encep said.
Operation Jaring Wallacea also underscores Papua Customs’ commitment to safeguarding borders and trade routes. The initiative aims to protect the public from the effects of illegal goods circulating and to ensure Indonesia’s natural resources are used in accordance with applicable regulations.
“With sustained oversight and support from various parties, we hope efforts to prevent and take action against customs and excise violations can be further strengthened in the interests of the state and the public,” Encep said.