BNN AND AFP AGREE TO STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP IN ADDRESSING TRANSNATIONAL DRUG THREATS

The National Narcotics Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (BNN) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have agreed to continue and strengthen their partnership in addressing transnational drug threats. The commitment was formalized through the signing of an extension to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in Combating Illicit Trafficking of Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances, and Drug Precursors by Head of BNN Suyudi Ario Seto and AFP Commissioner Krissy Barret in Bali on Tuesday (22 September).

Pursuant to Paragraph 11 of the MoU, the two institutions agreed to extend the cooperation for another five years from the expiration of the current agreement, until 25 November 2031. The extension provides a framework for BNN and AFP to continue and further strengthen their longstanding collaboration in tackling illicit drug trafficking networks.

The increasingly complex nature of drug threats, which transcend national borders, requires an adaptive and coordinated law enforcement response. The evolving modus operandi of criminal networks, the use of technology, and the exploitation of various cross-border routes present challenges that require close cooperation among law enforcement agencies.

In his remarks, Head of BNN Suyudi Ario Seto highlighted the development of new drug trafficking methods involving electronic cigarettes and vape devices as a means of consuming narcotic substances.

One of the findings that has drawn BNN's attention is the indication that cannabis buds are being processed into liquid THC extract and subsequently packaged into vape cartridges. This modus operandi demonstrates how drug trafficking networks continue to adapt by exploiting products that have become increasingly associated with modern urban lifestyles.

BNN considers this development an issue that needs to be addressed through stronger regulation and closer oversight of vape products to prevent them from being misused as a means of narcotics abuse and illicit drug distribution.

To strengthen its policies in this area, BNN also recognizes the importance of learning from the experiences of other countries, including Australia, which has established regulations and law enforcement practices concerning e-cigarettes and vape products. The exchange of information and best practices with Australia is expected to support Indonesia in addressing the potential misuse of vape products as part of emerging drug trafficking methods.

Under the partnership, BNN and AFP will continue to strengthen information and intelligence sharing, coordination in support of law enforcement efforts, and the development of personnel capacity and competencies. This collaboration is expected to enhance the efforts of both countries to identify, disrupt, and dismantle illicit drug trafficking networks.

BNN remains committed to expanding and strengthening its international cooperation network as part of its efforts to protect the public from the threat of narcotics. The partnership with AFP also forms part of BNN's efforts to ensure that transnational drug threats are addressed in a more targeted, responsive, and sustainable manner.

BNN calls on all stakeholders—including government institutions, law enforcement agencies, international partners, and the public—to strengthen vigilance and take an active role in preventing and combating illicit drug trafficking. Through strong cooperation and coordination, transnational drug threats can be addressed collectively to protect communities and realize a Drug-Free Indonesia, or Indonesia BERSINAR.

BNN Public Relations and Protocol Bureau