The drugs are smuggled into Aceh Province from such countries as Thailand and Malaysia through the seas and alternative paths to be then distributed to various areas in IndonesiaBanda Aceh, Aceh (ANTARA) - Transnational drug traffickers continue to use Aceh Province as their main entry point into Indonesia to bring in drugs such as crystal methamphetamine, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) revealed Tuesday. "The drugs are smuggled into Aceh Province from such countries as Thailand and Malaysia through the seas and alternative paths to be then distributed to various areas in Indonesia," the agency's head, Commissioner General Heru Winarko said.
Speaking at a declaration of drug-free villages and schools at Banda Aceh's Blangpadang Field, Winarko said many drug dealers from Aceh had been arrested. Two weeks ago, two drug dealers from this province were also nabbed.
The declaration of these drug-free villages and schools was also an endeavor to fight against drug trafficking activities and their misuse. These villages would function as a fortress because their residents would join the endless war on drug trafficking, he said.
Indonesia remains under serious threat from drug traffickers, as several individuals from its working-age population have been trapped in a vicious circle.
The BNN's report about some 50 Indonesians dying of drug use every day has failed to deter addicts.
People across communities and from distinct socio-economic and cultural backgrounds are users of crystal methamphetamine, narcotics, marijuana, and other addictive drugs.
Therefore, Indonesia is perceived by both domestic and transnational drug dealers as a potential market due to its huge population and millions of drug users. The value of the drug trade in the country is estimated to have reached nearly Rp66 trillion.
In response to the illicit drug trade over the past few decades, the Indonesian government continues to apply punitive action against them.
Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, had also issued shoot-at-sight orders against drug traffickers.
However, this has failed to deter them and they continue to treat Indonesia as one of their main markets even as law enforcers keep the fight going. (INE)
Related news: BNN Aceh confiscated 2.47 tons methamphetamine since 2017
Related news: Indonesian Navy foils smuggling attempt of 50 kg meth from Thailand
EDITED BY INE
Translator: M.Haris SA. Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
