The suspects were apprehended for their alleged involvement in 16 drug cases, Indragiri Hilir Police Chief Adjunct Sen. Coms. Indra Dhuaman informed journalists after observing the disposal of the confiscated drugs here on Tuesday.
Taking into account the dangers of addiction and negative impacts of drug abuse, Dhuaman urged local community members to get rid of crystal methamphetamine or other illicit drugs.
"Please avoid the use of drugs. In its place, deliver the best achievements," he stated, adding that parents should maintain constant supervision over their kids to prevent them from getting siphoned into the drug kingpins' traps.
The community members were also urged to assist the police's ongoing war on drugs by providing tip-offs on suspected drug trafficking and dealing activities.
Head of the Indragiri Hilir Police's Narcotics Unit Adjunct Commissioner Bachtiar remarked that ex-policemen and civil servants were among the 22 suspects in 16 drug cases.
Indonesia remains under grave threat from drug dealers, as several individuals from its working-age population have been embroiled in a vicious circle.
According to the National Narcotics Agency's report, some 50 drug use-related deaths occur in Indonesia. However, their deaths have failed to deter other drug users in the country from consuming these banned substances.
Users of crystal methamphetamine, narcotics, marijuana, and other addictive drugs transcend communities and socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
Hence, Indonesia is perceived by both domestic and transnational drug dealers as a potential market due to its huge population and millions of drug users. Drug trade in the country is estimated to reach nearly Rp66 trillion.
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In response to the illicit drugs that drug kingpins have smuggled into and traded in the country over the past few decades, the Indonesian government continues to apply punitive measures against them.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo had also instructed shoot-at-sight orders against drug kingpins.
However, this has failed to dissuade drug traffickers, who continue to treat Indonesia as one of their main markets even as Indonesian law enforcers continue their relentless fight against them. Related news: Kebayoran Baru police precinct chief sacked over ethics code violation
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Translator: Adriah, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
