Police Uncover Illegal Prescription Drug Sales Disguised as Grocery Shop in Tangerang

Police have uncovered a case of illegal prescription drug distribution operating from a grocery shop on Jalan Garuda, Batujaya, Batuceper, in the city of Tangerang. The operation came to light during a raid conducted in the early hours of Sunday, 14 June 2026, when officers became suspicious of a motorcyclist and discovered eight tramadol tablets carried by a 19-year-old identified by the initials MNE.

The youth told officers he had purchased the drugs for Rp 40,000 from a seller with the initials FU in the Kebon Besar area. Following further investigation, the police apprehended the seller. “From the suspect, officers seized 145 tramadol tablets, a black iPhone 13, and Rp 265,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from the sale of the prescription drugs,” said Tangerang City Police Chief Senior Commissioner Raden Muhammad Jauhari in a statement on Thursday, 18 June.

Both individuals are currently detained at the Batuceper Police Station for further investigation. They are charged under Article 435 in conjunction with Article 436, paragraph (2), of Indonesian Law Number 17 of 2023. “The unauthorised distribution of prescription drugs is a form of crime that must be dealt with firmly, as it can damage public health, particularly among young people. We will continue to monitor and take action against any illegal drug distribution within the jurisdiction of the Tangerang City Police,” Jauhari stated.

He urged the public not to purchase or consume medication without a prescription and professional medical supervision, and to report any suspected illegal sales. “We encourage the community to play an active role by providing information if they encounter the practice of illegal prescription drug sales in their neighbourhoods. Public cooperation is vital in maintaining collective security and health,” he added.