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| Indonesian Police Foil Smuggling Attempt of 5.7 Kg MDMB-4en-Pinaca Synthetic Cannabinoid in Batam, Exposing International Drug Trafficking Network. |
Batam – Indonesian authorities in the Riau Islands (Polda Kepri) successfully thwarted the smuggling of 5.7 kilograms of MDMB-4en-Pinaca, a dangerous synthetic cannabinoid often mistaken for cocaine, during an operation near Bahagia Beach, Nongsa, Batam. Two suspects were arrested, uncovering a broader international drug trafficking network.
Mistaken for Cocaine, But Even More Harmful
According to Riau Islands Police Chief Inspector General Asep Safrudin, the suspicious substance was initially thought to be cocaine. However, forensic lab tests confirmed it was MDMB-4en-Pinaca, a synthetic compound frequently used in illegal synthetic marijuana (synthetic weed) and vape liquids.
“This is our first seizure of this type of drug. We initially believed it was cocaine, but lab analysis confirmed it’s MDMB-4en-Pinaca. This is a new threat we must take seriously,” said the Police Chief during a press briefing on Friday, July 4.
Part of a Larger Crackdown on Drug Crimes in Riau Islands
The seizure is one of 26 drug-related cases uncovered by the Riau Islands Narcotics Directorate between June 5 and July 3, 2025, resulting in the arrest of 39 suspects. Authorities emphasized the urgent need for tighter surveillance and public awareness, especially in Batam, which remains a high-risk entry point for narcotics due to its strategic location.
“This is a wake-up call. If we can uncover 26 cases in just one month, it shows how serious the drug trafficking problem is here,” said Inspector General Asep.
Cross-Border Drug Smuggling via Sea Routes
Director of the Riau Islands Narcotics Division, Police Commissioner Anggoro Wicaksono, revealed that the shipment originated in Malaysia and was transported via boat to Batam, with plans to reroute it to Jakarta via Karimun Island.
Five individuals were involved in this trafficking attempt, though only two have been captured so far:
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ATA, a courier from Bandung, was caught at Nongsa Beach while attempting to retrieve the shipment.
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SH, served as a facilitator, providing transport and coordinating the boat from Malaysia to Batam.
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AA, Z (a Malaysian national), and N, are still at large and have been placed on the police’s wanted list. Z is believed to be the seller, AA the owner of the drugs, and N the intended recipient in Jakarta.
Facing the Harshest Penalties Under Indonesian Law
The suspects face charges under:
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Article 114 (2) and/or
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Article 112 (2) in conjunction with
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Article 132 (1) of Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics.
The legal consequences are severe, including a minimum of 6 years and up to 20 years imprisonment, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty.
Why This Case Matters for All of Us
The growing prevalence of synthetic drugs like MDMB-4en-Pinaca poses a serious public health risk. These substances are often disguised as more familiar drugs, making them even more dangerous. With Batam’s proximity to international waters, the region is especially vulnerable to drug smuggling operations.
Authorities are urging the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activities. Combating drug trafficking requires not just law enforcement, but also community involvement and education.
