**Indonesian Authorities Seize 2.6 Tonnes of Methamphetamine in Major Drug Bust**
*Published on 19/08/2026*
In a significant operation against drug trafficking, Indonesian authorities have seized 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine from a Tanzanian-flagged vessel, marking one of the largest drug busts in the country's history. The operation, which took place near Bengkalis in Riau province, resulted in the arrest of ten crew members, all of whom are Myanmar nationals.
The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) reported that intelligence indicated the MV Rain Maker was transporting narcotics from Sarawak, Malaysia, through the Andaman Sea to Indonesia. Acting on this information, the BNN, in coordination with customs officials, intercepted the vessel late on Monday. During the inspection, officials discovered the methamphetamine concealed in eight water barrels and a water tank. In addition to the meth, authorities also found over 1.5 million illegal cigarettes onboard.
Roy Hardi Siahaan, a senior official with the narcotics agency, confirmed the details of the seizure, stating, "The inspection of the vessel found 2.6 tonnes of methamphetamine, or liquid meth, stored in eight water barrels and a water tank." This operation follows another significant bust earlier this month, where Indonesian authorities seized 1.3 tonnes of ketamine from a different Tanzanian-flagged ship in the same region. That operation also resulted in the arrest of eight crew members.
Indonesia has a reputation for having some of the strictest anti-drug laws in the world, including the death penalty for drug traffickers. However, the country has maintained a moratorium on executions for several years. The government's stringent policies reflect the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the serious implications associated with drug-related crimes in the nation.
This recent seizure underscores the persistent challenges faced by Indonesian authorities in combating drug trafficking, particularly in maritime routes that facilitate the movement of illegal substances. The BNN's efforts to intercept and dismantle trafficking operations are part of a broader strategy to curb the influx of narcotics into the country, which has seen a rise in drug-related issues over the years.
The seizure is also notable as it follows Indonesia's largest-ever drug bust last year, where authorities confiscated two tonnes of crystal meth hidden on a fishing boat. The continued success of these operations highlights the importance of intelligence-sharing and cooperation among various law enforcement agencies in the region.
As Indonesia grapples with the complexities of drug trafficking, the government remains committed to enforcing its tough anti-drug laws while also seeking to address the underlying issues that contribute to the drug trade. The recent bust serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect the nation from the adverse effects of narcotics and to uphold the rule of law in the face of organized crime.