Director of Special Criminal Investigation of the Polda Metro Jaya, Kombes Pol Edy Suranta Sitepu, and Head of Public Relations of the Polda Metro Jaya, Kombes Pol Bhudi Hermanto, display evidence of smuggling of imported used clothing from South Korea, China, and Japan.

progresifjaya.co.id, JAKARTA – The Polda Metro Jaya’s Special Criminal Investigation Directorate (Ditreskrimsus) has uncovered a smuggling case of used clothing imported from South Korea, China, and Japan. Two raids, conducted on November 11 and 16, 2025, resulted in the seizure of 439 ball presses with an estimated value of over Rp4,28 billion.

The illegal goods were seized from several locations, including Duren Sawit, the KM 19 rest area on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road, and a warehouse in Padalarang, West Bandung. Several drivers, field coordinators, and several vehicles used for distribution were also seized.

The Head of Public Relations of the Polda Metro Jaya, Kombes Pol Budi Hermanto, stated in an official statement that this finding demonstrates the Polda Metro Jaya’s firm commitment to eradicating smuggling practices that harm the state and the public.

“This imported used clothing has not undergone proper hygienic processing, so it has the potential to carry bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. Beyond health concerns, this illegal activity also harms the domestic textile industry and MSMEs,” he told the media on Friday, (21/11).

Meanwhile, the Director of Special Criminal Investigation at the Polda Metro Jaya, Kombes Pol Edy Suranta Sitepu stated, that the firm action against the smuggling of imported used clothing from East Asian countries was taken in accordance with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive and the instruction of the Kapolri, Jenderal Pol Listyo Sigit Prabowo, to eradicate all forms of smuggling. He stated that this smuggling operation has clearly and visibly disrupted national economic stability.

“There is no room for smuggling perpetrators. We will take firm action against any illegal activity that harms the public,” he explained.

Revisiting this raid, the case was uncovered thanks to intensive investigative techniques. Distribution routes were tracked and the transport vehicles were pursued. This smuggling operation deliberately used multiple vehicles as a pattern. The loading and unloading was then carried out at night to avoid attracting attention.

Investigators have charged the arrested perpetrators with multiple articles related to illegal trade and money laundering (TPPU). They face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Therefore, Kombes Pol Edy Suranta Sitepu urged the public not to purchase or trade illegally imported used clothing. If you encounter any suspicious activity, report it immediately to the Jakarta Metropolitan Police for immediate action.

“We need public support to keep Jakarta safe and free from illegal goods,” he said hopefully. (Bembo)