Six Malaysians among prisoners serving life and death sentences transferred for tighter security.
Authorities have transferred 18 high-risk drug convicts from Tanjungpinang to Nusakambangan, including six Malaysian nationals. The move is part of Indonesia’s ongoing effort to centralize dangerous inmates in maximum-security facilities.
Midnight Transfer Operation
On August 22, 2025, 18 inmates convicted of drug-related offences were moved from Tanjungpinang to Nusakambangan. The operation involved ground transport from Tanjungpinang to Batam, followed by sea transfer to Nusakambangan.
Sentences and Profiles
The group included nine prisoners serving life sentences, four on death row, and five with terms exceeding ten years. Their ages ranged from 28 to 60. All had prior records of disciplinary violations in prison, making them high-risk.
Malaysian Nationals Among Prisoners
Six of the inmates are Malaysian citizens, all convicted in narcotics cases. The other 12 are Indonesian nationals. Authorities highlighted that the transfer was necessary to enhance monitoring and prevent further violations.
Coordinated Move Across Kepri
According to prison officials, inmates from other Riau Islands facilities also joined the transfer as part of a coordinated operation. The effort reflects the Ministry of Law and Human Rights’ policy of grouping dangerous inmates at high-security facilities.
Strengthening Prison Security
Lapas Nusakambangan, known as Indonesia’s most secure prison complex, is designated for high-risk inmates such as drug traffickers, terrorists, and violent offenders. Officials said the transfer aims to improve supervision and ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.
The relocation of 18 high-risk inmates from Tanjungpinang to Nusakambangan underscores Indonesia’s strategy of centralizing its most dangerous prisoners under maximum security. With foreign nationals included, the move also highlights the transnational nature of drug crimes impacting the region.
Sources: Presmedia (2025) , Batam Pos (2025)
Keywords: Tanjungpinang Prison, Nusakambangan Transfer, High-Risk Inmates, Drug Convicts, Malaysia Nationals, Indonesia Justice
