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| Indonesian Police Seize 45 Packs of Meth in Aceh, Arrest Two Couriers Linked to Former Village Chief. |
Aceh, Indonesia — Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) and the East Aceh Police Department have successfully uncovered a major drug trafficking operation involving crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as meth. The joint task force arrested two couriers and confiscated 45 packs of meth during a raid in Alue Puteh-Blang Geulumpang, East Aceh.
The two suspects, identified as Teuku Muhammad Akbar (44) and Khairul (45), were caught transporting the drugs, which were hidden inside two sacks and one bag.
Community Tip-Off Leads to Major Drug Bust
According to Brigadier General Eko Hadi Santoso, Director of the Narcotics Crime Division at Bareskrim, the operation began after the police received a tip from local residents about possible meth smuggling via maritime routes from Malaysia to Aceh.
"Based on the community report, our team launched an investigation and successfully apprehended the two suspects on site," said Brig. Gen. Eko on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
Suspects Were Paid Couriers Working for a Fugitive Politician
Initial investigations revealed that the two suspects acted as drug couriers, locally known as “kuda langsir”, a term used in Indonesia for low-level drug mules.
More shockingly, the operation was allegedly masterminded by a man known only by the initial B, who is now a fugitive. Police confirmed that B is a former village head and a failed candidate for the local parliament (DPRK) in Aceh.
“B instructed the suspects to retrieve the meth packages and promised a payment of approximately IDR 45 million (around USD 2,750),” Brig. Gen. Eko stated.
Ongoing Search for the Main Suspect
Authorities are currently continuing their pursuit of B, who is believed to be part of a transnational drug trafficking network. His political background has drawn public attention, raising concerns about the intersection between local politics and organized crime in Indonesia.
A Wake-Up Call for the Public
This case highlights the critical role that community involvement plays in combating drug trafficking. The Indonesian police urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially along coastal and border regions.
As Southeast Asia continues to face rising threats from the illicit drug trade, collaborative efforts between law enforcement and communities remain a vital defense.
