The Role of the Police in Overcoming Narcotics Trafficking Through Waterways: Pre-Emptive, Preventive and Repression Efforts

Abstract

Indonesia, as a maritime and archipelagic country, faces significant challenges in managing its vast borders, especially in the context of transnational crimes such as drug smuggling, human trafficking and terrorism. Deficiencies in securing maritime and land borders have increased the risk of transnational crime, affecting national security and humanity. Narcotics abuse in particular is a major concern, with prevalence increasing from 1.80% in 2019 to 1.95% in 2021. Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics offers a legal framework to address this problem, but border controls are not yet optimal indicating the need for more effective law enforcement strategies. This research uses qualitative methods, based on a normative legal theoretical framework. This study evaluates existing legal structures and their implementation in practice in the field, with a focus on the selection and analysis of legal literature. Data is collected from primary and secondary sources, providing an in-depth perspective on legal and policy issues related to narcotics in Indonesia. This research found that the role of the police in tackling the circulation of narcotics through waterways in Indonesia involves three main steps: pre-emptive, preventive and repressive efforts. Pre-emptive efforts include public education and monitoring vulnerable routes, while preventive efforts focus on reducing the movement of perpetrators and increasing vigilance at ports. Repressive efforts include direct arrest of the perpetrator and further development of the case. These findings demonstrate the need for inter-agency collaboration and the application of advanced technology for more effective monitoring. Legislation related to narcotics in Indonesia continues to develop, but there are still challenges in implementing strategies to reduce the demand and supply of illegal drugs. The circulation of narcotics via sea routes shows various modus operandi, requiring a multidimensional approach to handling.