Customs authorities seize millions of illegal cigarettes in Indonesia

Customs authorities in Indonesia have intensified crackdowns on illegal goods, specifically targeting illicit cigarettes and narcotics. In Jakarta, the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) seized over 10.7 million illegal cigarettes, resulting in an estimated state revenue loss of Rp8.05 billion. Officials noted that Jakarta is frequently used as a transit point for goods originating from East Java destined for West Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan. Year-to-date, Jakarta customs has seized nearly 60 million illegal cigarettes, a 31.7% increase compared to 2025.

Other significant enforcement actions include the seizure of 44 kilograms of marijuana in West Sumatra and 18 kilograms of marijuana in Bogor. In Aceh, police destroyed thousands of drug-laced vape cartridges and large quantities of ecstasy and methamphetamines. Additionally, authorities in Central Java intercepted a shipment of illegal cigarettes hidden inside a modified water tanker truck on a toll road.

In East Java, local governments and customs collaborated to destroy 43.2 million illegal cigarettes. Meanwhile, in Bojonegoro, local traders have begun refusing illegal products to avoid legal risks, a trend officials view as a positive sign of increased public awareness.