A former migrant worker was caught at Hang Nadim Airport attempting to smuggle crystal meth via her anus.
A disturbing smuggling attempt was uncovered at Batam’s Hang Nadim International Airport when customs officers detained a former Indonesian migrant worker (PMI) attempting to board a flight while concealing methamphetamine in her rectum.
Ex-Migrant Worker Caught Before Takeoff
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, a former Indonesian migrant worker was apprehended at Hang Nadim International Airport, Batam, for attempting to smuggle methamphetamine by concealing it in her rectum. The 45-year-old suspect, initials ES, was caught before boarding a Lionair flight bound for Lombok.
Narcotics Hidden in Body Cavity
The meth, weighing approximately 480 grams, found between the suspect’s body folds and sensitive areas, and seven more meth packages hidden inside the suspect’s rectum using the “inserter” method. The narcotics were cleverly concealed in capsule-shaped plastic, covered with latex resembling condoms to avoid rupture and detection.
Investigations revealed that ES had been promised a payment of Rp 48 million (approx. SGD 3,840) for successfully delivering the drugs.
Drug Use to Numb Pain
According to Zaky, a Batam Customs official, ES consumed meth before inserting the packages into her body. This was done to suppress pain during the dangerous process. The smuggling method posed extreme risks—not only to the public, but also to the suspect’s life.
Legal Process Underway
The suspect has been handed over to the Batam Police Narcotics Division for further investigation. She could face charges under Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment or death for trafficking offenses.
Regional Impact and Vigilance
Batam’s role as a transport hub between Indonesia and Singapore makes it a prime target for drug trafficking. This incident underscores the growing sophistication of smuggling tactics and the importance of stringent airport security. Both Indonesian and Singaporean authorities have been on high alert for cross-border narcotics activity.
Heightened collaboration between security agencies in both nations is essential to disrupt trafficking networks and protect regional security.
This incident highlights the persistent threat of drug trafficking through Indonesia’s border zones and the need for vigilance among customs officers and airport security. For both Indonesians and Singaporeans, Batam’s evolving role as a transit hub demands stronger cross-border cooperation to curb narcotics crime and protect regional safety.
Sources: Tribun News (2025) , RRI (2025)
Keywords: Batam Customs, Crystal Meth, Airport Arrest, Drug Concealment, Meth Smuggler
