Papua BNN chief Brigadier General Anang Triwidiandoko said on Tuesday that the agency has intensified monitoring through integrated inspections at key border points, particularly the Skouw crossing in Jayapura city, which authorities consider a high-risk entry route for illegal drugs.
“As the year-end approaches, we are tightening supervision in border areas because Papua remains highly vulnerable to illicit drug trafficking, especially marijuana,” Triwidiandoko told reporters in Jayapura.
He said the move follows directives from BNN headquarters that stress the need to strengthen border controls to protect communities from the threat posed by narcotics.
To bolster enforcement, the agency is coordinating closely with the Skouw Cross-Border Post (PLBN) and deploying joint inspection teams involving the Indonesian military (TNI), national police (Polri), customs and excise officers, and other relevant agencies.
These teams are conducting checks on travelers as well as their luggage and goods.
“Cross-sector coordination is essential to ensure effective supervision and to create a deterrent effect for drug smugglers,” Triwidiandoko said.
Related news: Indonesian troops seize 128 marijuana packs on PNG border
He added that integrated inspection operations will continue on a regular basis, supported by temporary facilities that have been set up in border areas to serve as operational posts for officers on duty.
Looking ahead, the Papua BNN hopes to establish a permanent interdiction service post at the border to further strengthen oversight, particularly along unofficial routes that are often exploited by smugglers.
“Information we have gathered indicates that these illicit activities often involve teenagers,” Triwidiandoko said, underscoring concerns about the impact of drug trafficking on young people.
Papua shares a land border with Papua New Guinea, making it one of Indonesia’s most sensitive regions for cross-border crimes, including narcotics smuggling.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that increased movement of people and goods during holiday periods can heighten the risk of illegal drug flows, prompting tighter security measures ahead of major celebrations.
Related news: PNG national arrested in Jayapura for smuggling 21kg of marijuana
Translator: Qadri Pratiwi, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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