In a significant crackdown on illegal fuel trade, the Kepri Regional Police’s Water Police Directorate successfully intercepted hundreds of liters of subsidized kerosene being smuggled from Lingga to Batam on Friday, September 30, 2024.
The operation unfolded in front of SMP Negeri 17 Batam, where police halted a pickup truck suspected of carrying the illegal cargo. This effort highlights the ongoing challenges and measures in curbing fuel smuggling in the region, reflecting the authorities’ heightened vigilance against such activities.
The operation was initiated based on community tips about suspicious activities involving a pickup truck. The vehicle was tracked from its entry point at ASDP Telaga Punggur port, culminating in its interception in front of the school.
Approximately 300 liters of kerosene were discovered concealed in 200 1.5-liter bottles inside the vehicle, a Suzuki Carry with license plate BP 8421 BB. This seizure underscores the scale of the smuggling operation aimed at diverting subsidized fuel for illegal sale.
The driver, identified only by the initial R, along with two assistants, H and MRFE, were detained for further investigation. They face charges under Article 55 of the 2001 Oil and Natural Gas Law, as amended by the 2023 Job Creation Law, illustrating the serious legal consequences of such offenses.
Kombes Pol Trisno Eko Santoso of the Kepri Police emphasized the critical role of community cooperation in these efforts. He appealed to the public to continue reporting suspicious activities, highlighting the importance of civic engagement in law enforcement.
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This operation not only prevents economic loss through the illegal fuel market but also ensures the integrity of subsidized fuel distribution systems, crucial for the local community’s energy needs.
The successful intervention by Kepri Police not only mitigates immediate economic threats but also reinforces regional security measures, essential for maintaining order and legal compliance in fuel distribution.
The Kepri Regional Police thwarted an attempt to smuggle 300 liters of subsidized kerosene into Batam, arresting three individuals and seizing significant evidence, which underscores the ongoing efforts to combat illegal fuel trade in the region.
