PPU Police Uncover Methamphetamine Trafficking Network in IKN Area, Two Suspects Arrested
The Narcotics Investigation Unit of the Penajam Paser Utara (PPU) Regency Police, East Kalimantan, successfully uncovered a methamphetamine trafficking operation on Sunday (24 May), arresting two male suspects who had been conducting transactions in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) area, Sepaku District, PPU.
“The operation was conducted by the Special Operations Team of the PPU Police Narcotics Unit following public reports of suspected narcotics transactions in RT 005, Pemaluan Village, Sepaku District,” stated PPU Police Chief AKBP Andreas Alek Danantara, via Narcotics Unit Chief IPTU Gede Wijaya on Tuesday (26 May) in Penajam.
Following the operation, officers arrested two male suspects, identified as AA (46) and H (41), at a rental house suspected to be a frequent location for methamphetamine transactions in the IKN area.
“The case was uncovered following intensive investigations by the Narcotics Unit based on public reports. Upon receiving the information, the Special Operations Team immediately conducted investigations at the location,” said IPTU Gede Wijaya.
“During the investigation, officers became suspicious of a man identified as AA, who was standing in front of the rental house, leading to immediate checks and searches,” he added.
From AA’s possession, officers seized two packets of methamphetamine weighing a gross 0.52 grams stored in a can, along with Rp100,000 in cash, a digital scale, clear plastic clips, a plastic straw shovel used as a drug paraphernalia, and a mobile phone suspected of facilitating drug transactions.
Following interrogation, the investigation led to another suspect, H, who was allegedly involved in the methamphetamine distribution. Shortly after, H arrived at the location and was promptly detained by officers.
“Under further investigation, suspect H cooperatively revealed another stash of methamphetamine hidden in the backyard of the rental house,” he said.
After searching, officers discovered seven packets of methamphetamine weighing a gross 1.96 grams concealed beneath a tree and covered with wood. Police also seized Rp558,000 in cash suspected to be proceeds from drug sales.
Both suspects and all evidence have been detained at the PPU Police Headquarters for further legal proceedings. They face charges under Article 114 (1) of Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics, along with provisions related to possession and control of Class I narcotics not derived from plants.
“Both suspects face a prison sentence of between five and 20 years, and fines ranging from Rp1 billion to Rp10 billion under the current Narcotics Law,” said the Narcotics Unit Chief.
The PPU Police are committed to eradicating narcotics trafficking and abuse within their jurisdiction and urge the public to collaborate by reporting any suspicious activities to the police to create a safe, drug-free environment.
The police urge the public to report any criminal activities, public order disturbances, or suspicious behaviour in their vicinity via the Call Center 110 or the PPU Police Chief’s WhatsApp complaint line at +62 821-5578-3178, which operates 24/7.
“PPU Police welcome public reports, complaints, criticisms, and suggestions to collectively maintain security, order, and support the continued safety and comfort of Penajam Paser Utara Regency,” he concluded. (EM)