Jambi Police Thwart Illegal Drug Distribution Worth Over Rp10bn

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jambi Regional Police seized 3.98 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 19,895 ecstasy pills, with a combined value exceeding Rp10 billion. Jambi Police Narcotics Investigation Director, Adj. Sr. Comr. Ernesto Saiser, stated that they received a tip about a drug courier. Acting on the tip, the police pursued a Honda Accord driven by AR in Muaro Jambi, which borders South Sumatra, on Friday, June 28.

AR attempted to flee but crashed into a parked truck. A search of the vehicle revealed that the drugs were hidden within Chinese tea packages. “The combined value of the goods reaches more than Rp10 billion,” Ernesto said.

He explained that AR claimed to have transported the drugs from Pekanbaru, Riau, to Palembang, South Sumatra. Based on AR's statement, the police then arrested AU as a dealer and part of an international drug syndicate. 

The drugs, Ernesto added, were smuggled from Malaysia via Burung Island, Indragiri Ilir Regency, Riau, and then brought to Jambi.

AR and AU, both residents of Batanghari, Jambi, have a history of drug trafficking and were involved in a similar case in the past.

AR reportedly admitted to transporting narcotics to several regions on three occasions, receiving Rp30 million per kilogram. “The perpetrator admitted that 14 kg of drugs were distributed in Jambi,” Ernesto said.

Both individuals face charges under Article 114 (2) of the Narcotics Law No. 35 of 2009, which carries a maximum penalty of death.

In addition, AR and AU also named a drug convict at the Surolangun Penitentiary, Jambi, as the owner of the narcotics. At present, the Jambi Police are investigating the involvement of the prisoner, who is identified as MI.

ANTARA

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