The Indonesian Maritime Security Agency has intercepted an attempt to smuggle hundreds of sacks of subsidized rice and sugar from Malaysia into Tarakan waters, North Kalimantan.

The operation was carried out by patrol vessel KN Gajah Laut-404 near the waters of Nyamuk Sebatik, North Kalimantan, on Sunday, April 27, 2025 following the information from the Indonesia Maritime Information Center (IMIC), local communities, and in coordination with the Indonesian Military Task Force, regarding suspected smuggling activities in the area.

Commander of KN Gajah Laut-404, Lieutenant Colonel Agus Tri Haryanto, coordinated with Bakamla Director for Sea Operations, Rear Admiral Octavianus Budi Susanto for further instructions.

Following orders, KN Gajah Laut-404 launched an immediate pursuit and inspection operation. At 05:35 Central Indonesia Time (WITA), the Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) Team was deployed to the target vessel located at 03°26'463"N - 117°31'121"E.

The team intercepted a wooden vessel identified as KM Lintas Samudra 07. Upon inspection, they discovered 500 sacks of rice, weighing approximately 5 tons, and 400 packs of sugar, totaling around 14.6 tons. None of the cargo was accompanied by official documents such as a Sailing Permit (SPB), cargo manifest, import licenses, Trade Business License (SIUP), crew certificates (SIJIL), or seafarer skill certifications.

Moreover, the vessel was found to be lacking proper communication equipment.

Seeing multiple legal violations, Commander of KN Gajah Laut-404 ordered KM Lintas Samudra 07 and all seized evidence to be towed to Tarakan for further investigation and legal proceedings.

"The operation was held in coordination with the community and relevant agencies to protect national interests, particularly regarding the circulation of subsidized goods," Bakamla spokesperson Major Yuhanes Antara said as quoted in a statement on Sunday.