PPU Police Dismantle Methamphetamine Distribution Ring, Seize 12 Drug Packets

A trio of men involved in distributing Category 1 narcotics, specifically methamphetamine, were apprehended by the Narcotics Investigation Unit of the Penajam Paser Utara (PPU) Police during an operation in Penajam District on Tuesday (30/6). Police seized 12 ready-to-distribute packets of the drug. PPU Police Chief AKBP Andreas Alek Danantara, through Narcotics Unit Head IPTU Gede Wijaya, confirmed the arrests on Monday (6/7). The case began with a public tip-off regarding suspected drug transactions in a room at the Silkar Indah Inn, located in Girimukti Village, Penajam District. The three suspects were identified as DB (18), a resident of Sesumpu Village, Penajam; HK (23), a resident of Kampung Baru; and RF (25), also a resident of Kampung Baru. Acting on the information, the Narcotics Unit’s operations team swiftly conducted surveillance at the suspected location. After confirming the intelligence, officers raided the room at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time. Inside, they arrested DB and discovered two packets of methamphetamine with a gross weight of about 0.42 grams, along with a clear plastic clip. Police also seized Rp400,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from drug transactions and a mobile phone suspected of being used for communication in the illicit trade. Initial questioning of DB revealed that the drugs were obtained from another suspect, HK (23). Following this lead, officers apprehended HK in the inn’s parking area. During interrogation, HK admitted to possessing more methamphetamine stored at his residence. A subsequent search of HK’s house, witnessed by local residents, uncovered ten ready-to-distribute packets of methamphetamine with a total gross weight of approximately 1.82 grams. Additional evidence seized included five clear plastic clips, a scoop made from a plastic straw believed to be used for packaging the drugs, a wallet, and storage packaging. Further investigation led officers to a third suspect, RF, who was arrested at his home in Kampung Baru. A mobile phone suspected of being used for drug-related communication was confiscated. In total, the operation resulted in the seizure of 12 packets of methamphetamine with a combined gross weight of around 2.24 grams, along with cash, plastic clips, packaging tools, and two mobile phones. All suspects and evidence have been secured at the PPU Police headquarters for further investigation. The police stated that the successful operation demonstrates their commitment to combating the illegal drug trade, which poses a threat to the younger generation and public safety. The suspects are charged under Article 114(1) in conjunction with Article 132(1) and/or Article 112 of Law Number 35 of 2009 on Narcotics. Investigators are continuing to develop the case to uncover any other networks involved in drug trafficking within the PPU Regency.