Customs authorities in the Riau Islands destroyed millions of illegal cigarettes, alcohol, and smuggled goods worth over Rp5.4 billion.

In a strong demonstration of law enforcement and public protection, Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) in the Riau Islands destroyed illegal goods worth Rp5.4 billion (about S$432,000) seized between 2022 and 2025. The operation reflects the government’s firm stance against smuggling and illegal trade that threaten the economy and public welfare.

Crackdown on Illegal Trade

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) Special Office for the Riau Islands, together with the Tanjung Balai Karimun Customs Office, conducted the destruction of confiscated goods at the DJBC Kepri field on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. The operation covered 244 violation cases, including 78 handled by the Kepri Regional Office and 166 by the Tanjung Balai Karimun Office.

Millions of Illegal Cigarettes and Alcohol Seized

Among the destroyed goods were 2,609,460 illegal cigarettes and 159.58 liters of unlicensed alcoholic beverages seized by the Kepri office. The Tanjung Balai Karimun office added another 2,303,708 illegal cigarettes, 2,745.8 liters of illegal alcohol, and 291 cans of alcoholic drinks. These items were destroyed through burning, cutting, and crushing with heavy machinery.

Protecting Society and the State

Head of the Riau Islands Customs Office, Adhang Noegroho Adhi, emphasized that the operation represents the agency’s role as a “community protector.” It also supports President Joko Widodo’s Asta Cita program aimed at strengthening governance and economic integrity. “We are committed to enforcing customs and excise laws to protect the public from harmful goods and safeguard state revenue,” Adhang stated.

Illegal Goods Worth Rp5.4 Billion

According to official data, the destroyed goods were valued at Rp5.46 billion, with potential state losses estimated at Rp3.5 billion. Items included 487 sacks of clothing, 298 sacks of dried chili, 147 single mattresses, 20 queen-sized mattresses, 90 tires, 30 bales of apparel, 27 pillows, 12 bicycles, and 10 sacks of mixed goods. Each item had received formal approval for destruction from the State Wealth and Auction Service Office (KPKNL) Batam, representing the Ministry of Finance.

Upholding the Law Through Collaboration

The destruction event was attended by representatives from the Karimun district government, KPKNL Batam, Tanjung Balai Karimun Tax Office, and local law enforcement agencies. Adhang highlighted that this success was the result of close coordination between Customs and other enforcement bodies. “We will continue coordinated efforts to prevent the circulation of illegal goods and maintain a healthy, transparent trade environment,” he said.

Sustaining Integrity in Border Trade

The Riau Islands, a key maritime hub near Singapore and Malaysia, face persistent challenges with cross-border smuggling. The Customs authority’s proactive stance not only reinforces Indonesia’s trade security but also builds investor confidence in regional economic governance. Continued vigilance ensures fair competition for legitimate businesses and upholds Indonesia’s international trade reputation.

The Rp5.4 billion destruction of illegal goods in Karimun underscores Indonesia’s dedication to combating illicit trade and protecting national revenue. For both Indonesians and regional partners like Singapore, such actions affirm the government’s resolve to maintain secure and transparent trade channels across maritime borders.

Sources: Batam Today (2025) , ANTARA News Kepri (2025)

Keywords: Bea Cukai Kepri, Illegal Goods Destruction, Riau Islands, Law Enforcement, Customs Indonesia