Indonesia’s Maritime Security Strengthened by Major Drug Bust in Riau Waters

RRI.CO.ID, Batam – Indonesia’s naval forces have reinforced their role as guardians of national sovereignty after successfully intercepting a massive ketamine smuggling attempt in the waters north of Tanjung Berakit, Riau Islands.

The joint operation, led by the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), uncovered 1,298 kilograms--nearly 1.3 tons--of ketamine hidden in 65 sacks aboard the foreign vessel MV King Sun. The estimated street value of the seizure is around IDR 2.1 trillion, making it one of the largest drug busts in Indonesia’s maritime history.

Commander of the Indonesian Fleet Command, Deputy Admiral Denih Hendrata, praised the strong inter‑agency synergy, noting the achievement was made possible through close collaboration among the Navy, State Intelligence Agency (BIN), National Police, National Narcotics Agency (BNN), and Customs.

"It is a concrete example of how vigilance and responsiveness can thwart large-scale narcotics smuggling,” he said during a press conference in Batam on Sunday, August 9, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The vessel, sailing under a Tanzanian flag with eight foreign crew members, had been under surveillance for three months following intelligence reports of suspicious movements.

“Intelligence monitoring detected anomalies in King Sun’s route. When the ship entered Indonesian waters, KRI Kerambit approached and deployed a team to inspect the cargo," BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto explained.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the ship’s ownership, cargo documentation, and possible additional contraband. The seized ketamine will be destroyed in the near future.

Suyudi stressed the broader significance of the operation. “This is a clear commitment to protect Indonesia’s borders from transnational threats and to cut off illegal drug circulation. The sea lanes of Indonesia must never be exploited for narcotics distribution,” he concluded.

The case underscores Indonesia’s determination to strengthen maritime security, enhance inter-agency cooperation, and combat the rising threat of illegal ketamine trade across its territorial waters. ***