Indonesia, Australia extend anti-drug partnership through 2031
Photo caption: Head of the Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) Commander General Suyudi Ario Seto (sixth from the left) poses with Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Krissy Barrett (sixth from the right) during a meeting in Bali, Tuesday (September 22, 2026). (ANTARA/HO-BNN RI)
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) have extended their law enforcement partnership through 2031 to combat transnational drug trafficking, including emerging threats such as drug-infused liquid vapes.
The five-year extension of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on combating illicit narcotics, psychotropic substances and precursor trafficking was signed in Bali on Tuesday (Sept. 22) by BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto and AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett.
In a statement confirmed here Wednesday (Sept. 23), Suyudi said the borderless nature and technological sophistication of modern drug networks require an adaptive and coordinated international response.
"Evolving modi operandi, the exploitation of technology, and the use of various transnational routes by organized crime networks present challenges that must be met through close inter-agency cooperation," Suyudi said.
BNN has identified the growing use of electronic cigarettes, or vapes, as a potential medium for drug distribution as a key operational concern.
BNN intelligence indicates organized networks are increasingly processing cannabis buds into liquid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) extracts for vape cartridges, targeting consumers in urban lifestyle markets.
To strengthen domestic oversight, BNN plans to study Australia's regulatory frameworks and law enforcement practices concerning electronic cigarettes.
"The exchange of information and best practices with Australia is expected to support Indonesia in addressing the potential misuse of vapes as part of emerging drug-related criminal methods," Suyudi said.
Under the extended MoU, BNN and AFP will expand cooperation on real-time intelligence sharing on syndicates, direct operational coordination for interdiction, and joint capacity-building and specialized training.
Suyudi said the agreement provides a foundation for dismantling cross-border drug networks and protecting the public, while urging government agencies and civil society to remain vigilant.
