Prevent Panic Buying of Fuel During Mudik Season, Riau Police Chief Orders Tight Monitoring of Petrol Stations
Police Chief of Riau Province Inspector General Herry Heryawan has highlighted the phenomenon of long queues at numerous petrol stations and shortages of certain types of fuel. He has instructed police units to maintain strict monitoring of petrol stations to prevent panic buying of fuel during the upcoming mudik (homecoming) period.
“We must be able to anticipate this situation through security measures and intensive monitoring to prevent panic buying,” said Inspector General Herry on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.
This statement was made by the Riau Police Chief during the Pre-Operation Exercise (Lat Praops) Ketupat Lancang Kuning 2026, held at the Tri Brata Auditorium of Riau Regional Police Headquarters. This activity was conducted to enhance the readiness of personnel for Operation Ketupat Lancang Kuning in preparation for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr 1447 H/2026 M.
According to him, conditions such as long queues at several petrol stations and shortages of certain types of fuel—including biodiesel, Pertalite, and Pertamax—need to be anticipated. He wants to prevent panic buying of fuel in Riau due to heightened global tensions.
The Police Chief has requested that police district units develop queue management schemes to prevent panic buying. Meanwhile, he commended the police chiefs of Siak and Rokan Hilir (Rohil) districts who have moved quickly to take enforcement action and conduct socialisation regarding fuel distribution in their respective areas.
“I request that all units formulate a rapid response scheme. If long queues or certain situations occur, there must be certainty regarding how long it takes for personnel to respond and arrive at the location,” he added.
The Pre-Operation Exercise Ketupat Lancang Kuning 2026 will run for 13 days, from 13-25 March 2026, with the main focus on securing the mudik exodus and maintaining public security and order amid global dynamics.
During the opening of the exercise, the Police Chief presented six points of instruction to all participants. First, personnel are asked to prepare physically and mentally for the implementation of operational duties.
“Second, continuously strengthen synergy to build strong collaboration with local government, the military, and related institutions (particularly Pertamina Patra Niaga),” he said.
He also requested that police units directly monitor petrol stations, oil companies, and distribution channels to ensure there is no speculation or hoarding that could impact security stability.
“Prioritise professionalism and act proportionally and in a planned manner. Prioritise a humanitarian approach in providing friendly service to the public,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of heightened vigilance to anticipate potential terrorism threats. The Police Chief requested that units increase security awareness in protecting headquarters.
“Our task is not only security, but also service. We must ensure that the public can observe Ramadan and celebrate Eid al-Fitr safely, smoothly, and peacefully,” he affirmed.