RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian authorities have foiled an attempt to smuggle nearly three kilograms of gold to Malaysia, underscoring the country's commitment to protecting state revenue and strengthening border security against cross-border crimes.

The joint operation, led by the Banda Aceh Customs and Excise Office, resulted in the arrest of a Chinese national identified by the initials GP at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Aceh Besar on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

"GP was arrested for illegally carrying gold bullion. He was a passenger on a commercial flight bound for Malaysia," Banda Aceh Customs and Excise Office Head Rahmat Priyandoko said on Thursday, July 9, as quoted by Antara.

Rahmat said the case marked the second successful interception of gold smuggling through Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport. Authorities had previously seized 527 grams of gold in an earlier operation.

The arrest followed intelligence information that prompted customs officers to work with personnel from Angkasa Pura, Aceh Police, Banda Aceh Police, Banda Aceh Immigration Office, and Sultan Iskandar Muda Air Force Base to monitor departing passengers.

Officers became suspicious of a passenger preparing to board a flight to Malaysia. During an inspection, they discovered two gold bars weighing a total of 2,989 grams concealed inside a small bag.

"Based on the initial examination, the foreign national failed to declare the goods in an apparent attempt to avoid export duties," Rahmat said.

Using the Trade Ministry's reference price, authorities estimated the value of the seized gold at approximately IDR 7.254 billion (around USD 445,000).

GP is currently being detained by Aceh Police for further investigation. Investigators are also tracing the origin of the gold, including whether it came from legal or illegal mining activities.

Rahmat said the enforcement action reflected Customs' commitment to safeguarding Indonesia's economy and securing state revenue. He added that customs authorities, together with other agencies, would continue strengthening inspections to close loopholes used for smuggling high-value commodities.

"We also urge businesses and the public to comply with export regulations to help create fair and healthy trade while contributing optimally to the national economy," he concluded. ***