TNI Chief of Staff inspects seized evidence of rare earth elements smuggling in Batam

Batam (ANTARA) - Chief of Staff of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Richard Taruli H. Tampubolon, inspected evidence of alleged smuggling of rare earth minerals and illegal radioactive elements seized by the Indonesian Navy in Batam, Riau Islands.

“Inspection was conducted to delve into the investigation results regarding alleged customs violations and mineral export trade regulations that could harm the state and threaten national natural resource management,” Richard said in an official statement received in Batam on Wednesday.

During the visit, the TNI Chief of Staff and his team inspected 25 containers of evidence seized from the TB Capricorn 106/TK Capricorn 92.210 vessel.

“Furthermore, the cargo contains rare earth elements and radioactive materials for nuclear raw materials such as zirconium oxide, thorium oxide, neodymium oxide, triuranium octoxide, and cerium oxide,” he said.

He stated the ship’s cargo is estimated to be worth trillions of rupiah.

According to Berkat, the thwarted smuggling operation demonstrates the Indonesian Navy’s commitment, alongside relevant agencies, to safeguard national sovereignty and protect strategic natural resources from illegal activities.

“This operation reflects the Indonesian Navy’s commitment to executing the orders of the President of the Republic of Indonesia and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, in collaboration with all relevant agencies, to uphold national sovereignty,” he said.

The Commander of the Indonesian Navy’s Fleet Command added that the success proves the readiness of Indonesian Navy personnel to safeguard sovereignty, enforce the law, and secure Indonesia’s natural wealth.

The inspection activity is part of inter-agency synergy supporting law enforcement and prevention of illegal activities that could harm the state and endanger the environment.