Customs office launches public education and reporting initiatives to combat illegal cigarette trade across the Riau Islands.
The Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) Kepri is stepping up efforts to combat the circulation of illegal cigarettes in Karimun, a region vulnerable to smuggling due to its strategic maritime routes. Authorities are now calling for stronger public participation through education campaigns and a new reporting hotline.
Customs Responds to Public Complaints
Recent complaints from Karimun residents regarding the circulation of untaxed cigarettes reached the Indonesian Minister of Finance, prompting swift action from the Kepri Regional Customs Office (DJBC Khusus Kepri). In response, officials held a public outreach event in Karimun Regency, emphasizing education as the key to prevention.
“We’re inviting everyone to understand the rules around cigarette distribution and how to identify illegal products,” said Adhang Nugroho Adhi, Head of the Kepri Customs Office. He underscored that collaboration between traders, law enforcement, and citizens is essential to cut off supply chains and protect state revenue.
Launch of “Lapor Kanwil” Reporting Channel
As part of the initiative, Customs officially launched the “Lapor Kanwil” application and a dedicated complaint hotline (0811-7007-0002) on October 23, 2025. The platform enables citizens to report illegal tobacco trade activities directly to customs officers.
According to Adhang, every report received will be followed up promptly. “We want to ensure that no illegal cigarettes slip through. The hotline connects directly to me,” he affirmed, stressing transparency and quick action in handling public tips.
Joint Operations and Law Enforcement
The Kepri Customs Office continues to coordinate with the Navy (TNI AL), Police (Polri), Prosecutors’ Office, and local governments to conduct regular market inspections. These operations aim not only to seize illegal products but also to educate store owners about the risks and penalties of selling non-taxed cigarettes.
Adhang explained that enforcement covers multiple layers — from street-level vendors to maritime routes and ferry terminals — where most smuggling attempts occur. “We often intercept foreign-origin cigarettes entering by sea,” he said, adding that traders play a crucial role in tracing the distribution network.
Economic and Health Implications
Beyond fiscal losses, authorities warn that illegal cigarettes harm both legitimate industry players and public health. “By suppressing the illegal trade, we protect state income, support compliant businesses, and promote better community health,” Adhang stated.
He also reminded retailers that those who persist in selling illicit tobacco products risk criminal prosecution under Indonesia’s Excise Law, which prescribes imprisonment for non-compliance.
Encouraging a Culture of Compliance
The Customs Office hopes that public awareness and community vigilance will significantly reduce smuggling activities in the Riau Islands. “Our goal is not only enforcement but education — so that traders, distributors, and residents can recognize and reject illegal cigarettes,” Adhang emphasized.
Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities via the hotline, contributing to a collective effort to safeguard national revenue and uphold fair trade practices.
The Kepri Customs campaign reflects Indonesia’s broader push to tighten excise control and curb illegal trade. By engaging local communities, strengthening inter-agency cooperation, and leveraging public reporting tools, authorities aim to build a cleaner, more accountable market — one that benefits both the economy and public well-being across the Riau Islands and beyond.
Sources: Batamnews (2025) , Gokepri (2025)
Keywords: Bea Cukai Kepri, Illegal Cigarettes, Karimun, Smuggling, Public Awareness, Lapor Kanwil
