Indonesian police officer caught after tourist arrests reveal link to drug distribution in Lingga’s top island

An active Indonesian National Police officer has been arrested for allegedly distributing ecstasy pills to tourists visiting Pulau Berhala, a scenic destination in the Lingga Islands of the Riau Archipelago.

The case has drawn national attention as it involves a member of law enforcement accused of directly supplying illegal narcotics. The arrest followed a joint operation by military and police forces who earlier detained two tourists in possession of drugs.

Officer Accused of Selling Drugs to Tourists

Police Brigadier AH, an officer with the Tanjung Jabung Timur Police Department, is under internal investigation by the Professional and Security Division (Bidpropam) of the Jambi Regional Police. He was arrested after allegations surfaced that he sold ecstasy pills to tourists on Pulau Berhala, a growing tourism hotspot in Lingga, Riau Islands.

The case emerged after a joint Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) task force detained two tourists in possession of 16 ecstasy pills. Under questioning, the tourists identified the supplier as a police officer—leading authorities to Brigadier AH.

Arrest and Internal Discipline Measures

Ipda Maulana, Public Information Officer of the Jambi Regional Police, confirmed the arrest on Saturday, April 12, 2025. “He is suspected of selling ecstasy to tourists on Berhala Island,” Maulana stated. Brigadier AH has since been placed in patsus (special detention) for intensive questioning while awaiting possible ethical and legal proceedings.

“If found guilty, he will face a police ethics tribunal,” Maulana continued. The most severe consequence could be dishonourable discharge (PTDH) from the Indonesian National Police.

Drug Network Traced From Tourist Arrests

Authorities recovered 16 pills of ecstasy, branded as “rolek,” and an undisclosed amount of cash from the two detained tourists. The confiscated evidence was deemed sufficient to expand the investigation to law enforcement personnel allegedly involved in the illegal distribution chain.

Investigators are currently mapping out possible wider networks connected to Brigpol AH’s involvement, with ongoing probes into whether other individuals in law enforcement or civilian sectors may be part of the operation.

Tourism Image at Risk

The scandal has cast a shadow over Pulau Berhala, long celebrated for its natural beauty and eco-tourism appeal. Officials fear that unchecked drug activity—especially among those in uniform—may damage the island’s growing reputation.

With the Lingga Regency’s push for sustainable tourism, regaining public trust and ensuring a safe visitor experience have become urgent priorities.

The arrest of Brigadier AH highlights Indonesia’s internal struggle to root out drug-related corruption within its security forces. For a destination like Pulau Berhala, where tourism plays a pivotal role, restoring integrity and rule of law will be crucial in safeguarding both public image and visitor safety.

Sources: Batam News (2025), Law Justice (2025)

Keywords: Brigpol AH Case, Ecstasy On Berhala, Tourist Drug Arrest, Riau Islands Narcotics, Indonesian Police Ethics