Jayapura Marijuana War: Police Plea to Residents
Rising Marijuana Trafficking from PNG Poses growing Threat to Papua’s Youth
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Jayapura, Papua – Authorities in Jayapura, Papua, are sounding the alarm over a critically important surge in marijuana trafficking from Papua New Guinea (PNG), warning of a serious and escalating threat to the region’s younger generation. Increased vigilance and community involvement are being urged to combat the growing problem.
Surge in Marijuana Seizures Signals Expanding Network
Recent data reveals a dramatic increase in marijuana seizures originating from PNG. In the first half of 2025, Jayapura City Police confiscated 22.6 kilograms of marijuana, leading to the arrest of 30 suspects across 22 seperate investigations. This represents a ample jump from the 7.5 kilograms seized during the same period in 2024.
Adjunct Commissioner Febry Pardede, Chief of the Narcotics Unit at Jayapura City Police, emphasized the critical role of community support. “Community support is crucial in preventing the circulation of marijuana,which greatly impacts our younger generation,” he stated. “Don’t be afraid to speak up. Your details can help disrupt the marijuana trafficking network.”
The illicit drug isn’t confined to Jayapura. Authorities report that marijuana is being transported to other cities throughout the Papua region, including Manokwari (West Papua), Nabire (Central Papua), and Sorong (Southwest Papua). Traffickers are exploiting both land and sea routes, utilizing ships departing from Jayapura Port to distribute the drugs to neighboring islands.
Border Vulnerabilities and Interdiction Efforts
The Indonesia-PNG border remains a significant vulnerability for cross-border criminal activity, particularly drug smuggling. The rugged terrain and porous border facilitate the movement of illicit goods, frequently enough along footpaths.
Recent interdiction efforts demonstrate the ongoing struggle:
July 8, 2025: A border security task force discovered a large bag containing 128 packs of marijuana during a patrol near Skofro Village, Keerom District.
May 9, 2024: The Indonesian Navy intercepted six traffickers attempting to smuggle 13.43 kilograms of dried marijuana from PNG.
March 21, 2024: Papua Police arrested two PNG citizens, Junior Lenga and Rindox, who were attempting to smuggle 51 packages of marijuana hidden within sacks of rice.
These incidents highlight the persistent efforts of law enforcement to disrupt the supply chain, but also underscore the need for a more comprehensive and collaborative approach.
Collaborative Approach: Police and Community Partnership
The Jayapura City Police are actively encouraging public participation in combating the drug trade. Reporting suspected activity, no matter how small, is vital to disrupting the trafficking network. Police are committed to working alongside communities to curb drug distribution throughout the region.
“We remain committed to working with communities to curb drug distribution in the region,” Pardede affirmed.
This collaborative strategy recognizes that law enforcement alone cannot effectively address the issue. Increased awareness, education, and community vigilance are essential components of a successful long-term solution. The focus is not only on apprehension but also on prevention, particularly among vulnerable youth.
Related News:
Indonesian Navy steps up patrols to curb drug smuggling from PNG
* TNI border patrol uncovers marijuana field near Papua border