Tramadol Widely Sold Freely in Jakarta; Provincial Government Urged to Tighten Pharmacy Supervision

The Chair of the Forum for Youth Concerned About Jakarta (FPPJ), Endriansyah, has highlighted the widespread circulation of tramadol, a controlled narcotic, being sold freely across various areas. This phenomenon is concerning as it is suspected of contributing to rising social problems among young people, ranging from gang fights and street crime to other forms of juvenile delinquency.

Endriansyah emphasised that tramadol is a controlled medication that must be dispensed only with a doctor’s prescription. However, the reality on the ground shows that the drug is easily accessible to young people through unscrupulous sellers.

“The unregulated distribution of controlled medications such as tramadol poses serious risks to our young generation. We urge the Jakarta Provincial Government and relevant authorities to take firm action immediately,” said Endriansyah in a statement received on Tuesday, 17 June.

Drug misuse among young people often aims to achieve euphoric effects or false feelings of courage. According to FPPJ, this altered mental state triggered by the drug leads to aggressive behaviour, encouraging them to commit crimes or attack rival groups without hesitation.

In recent days, public concern over the circulation of controlled drugs has even triggered community reactions. Several residents have been reported to have dispersed drug sellers by setting off fireworks in protest and anger.

This incident is seen as a strong signal that the public has become extremely anxious and feels their neighbourhoods are threatened by illegal drug distribution practices.

The distribution of tramadol represents a significant challenge for drug regulators nationwide. The Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) is strengthening supervision of medicine production across various pharmaceutical companies to prevent contamination cases.