Two Students in Bontang Detained Over Drug Trafficking
Two teenagers still enrolled as students in Bontang, East Kalimantan, were detained by the Bontang Police Residency’s Narcotics Unit (Satresnarkoba) on suspicion of distributing crystal methamphetamine, with a total evidence weight of 854.67 grams. The suspects, identified as MAP (17) and M (18), were apprehended after police received a community report about suspected drug transactions in the Brigjen Katamso Street area of Gunung Elai Village, North Bontang. On Monday, May 11, around 8:00 PM WITA, they were stopped while riding a Honda Scoopy motorcycle.
“When they were riding together on the motorcycle, police stopped them. Both admitted to being MAP and M,” the officer said.
During the search, officers found three packets of crystal meth inside a cigarette box carried by one suspect. Further investigation led to the vehicle and the suspect’s residence in South Bontang.
“From the follow-up search, police discovered several ready-to-sell meth packages and other supporting evidence,” he added.
He stated that the total seized drugs amounted to 21 packets weighing 857.67 grams gross, comprising three packets of 1.47 grams and 18 packets of 853.2 grams.
“Police also seized two mobile phones, plastic bag clips, and a motorcycle suspected to be used in the drug trafficking activities,” he said.
He emphasised that this case involving two students is not just a routine drug bust but a serious warning about the real threat to the future of young people, as drug trafficking patterns are increasingly dangerous by involving teenagers in the network.
“Free socialising, promises of quick money, environmental influences, and digital recruitment are patterns currently targeting youth. This requires collective attention. When teenagers become part of the drug trafficking chain, what’s at stake is not just legal consequences but their future,” the police chief stated.
He noted that handling suspects under age follows the juvenile justice system, ensuring their rights during legal proceedings. However, strict action against drug trafficking remains the police’s top priority.
“Police cannot work alone. Parents, schools, communities, and society must step in to protect our children from becoming victims or perpetrators in drug networks,” he concluded. (EM)