PLBN Skouw tightens surveillance on marijuana smuggling during market days

Jayapura - PLBN Skouw has intensified surveillance on cross-border traffic and vehicles on market days to prevent marijuana smuggling from Papua New Guinea (PNG) into Indonesia.

Head of PLBN Skouw Ni Luh Puspa Jayaningsih said on Monday that increased checks are being conducted as market days are vulnerable for smugglers exploiting high community activity at the border.

“They usually take advantage of market days due to heavy traffic, motorcycle taxis, and increased community movement,” she said.

“When security personnel and Customs officers inspect baggage, suspects immediately flee and abandon marijuana packages,” she added.

She explained that during border market days, up to 2,000 people cross daily, twice a week. Most PNG residents use manifest documents to shop at the border market.

Previously, narcotics smuggling occurred mainly via unofficial routes or sea routes, but with enhanced security, smugglers are now using official border crossings.

“Therefore, we are increasing inspections for all crossers and vehicles entering via PLBN Skouw alongside Customs, Immigration, and other security forces,” she said.