The Directorate of Drug Investigation of the East Kalimantan Regional Police (Polda Kaltim) has successfully uncovered money laundering (TPPU) activities originating from the illicit drug trade in Paser Regency. In this disclosure, police arrested a suspect identified by the initials MYF (54) and seized various assets worth billions of rupiah, strongly suspected to be the proceeds of the illicit drug trade.
The arrest, which took place at the suspect's residence in Selerong Village, Muara Komam District, Paser Regency, was part of the targets of the Antik Mahakam Operation. At the location, officers seized a fantastic amount of evidence, including IDR 1 billion in cash, a Toyota Fortuner, a Toyota Hilux, and ownership documents for a 13-hectare oil palm plantation. In addition to the valuable assets, officers also secured remaining packages of crystal meth weighing 1.49 grams, ecstasy pills weighing 2.17 grams, and digital scales.
Director of Drug Investigation of the East Kalimantan Regional Police, Senior Commissioner Romylus Tamtelahitu, revealed that MYF is suspected of running this illicit business since 2023. Based on the results of an intensive investigation, the suspect is alleged to have distributed 1 to 1.5 kilograms of crystal meth every month in the Muara Komam area and its surroundings.
To disguise the proceeds of his crime, MYF utilized a structured financial transaction method. He allegedly used his personal bank account and borrowed accounts belonging to other parties to accommodate the money from drug sales, which was then converted into property assets, plantations, and luxury vehicles.
As a result of his actions, MYF is now charged under multiple articles, namely Article 137 of Law Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics, juncto Article 607 of the Criminal Code, and Article 3 of Law Number 8 of 2010 concerning the Prevention and Eradication of Money Laundering. The suspect now faces a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and a maximum fine of IDR 10 billion.
