The South Tapanuli narcotics unit detained a 49-year-old man identified by the initials AHB, a resident of Mandailing Natal regency, over suspected cannabis dealing.[1][2][3][4][5] The operation took place in Aek Badak village, Sayur Matinggi subdistrict, South Tapanuli regency, on Wednesday 21 October 2026.[6][3][4][5] Officers acted on intelligence about a man suspected of carrying cannabis.[1][3] They found a white sack containing a grey suitcase wrapped in blue plastic and tape.[1][6][2][3][4]

Inside the suitcase was about 15 kg of ganja, Indonesian for cannabis.[1][6][2][3][4][5] A further 5.15 g was found in AHB’s front left trouser pocket.[1][6][2][3][4][5] AHB told officers the cannabis belonged to a friend identified only as A.[1][6][2][3][4][5]

Police said they were still looking for A.[1] They were also investigating where the cannabis came from and possible involvement by others.[6][3] South Tapanuli police chief AKBP Anton Santoso gave the account through narcotics unit head AKP Philip Antonio Purba in a statement received on Saturday 31 October.[6][2][3]

The arrest took place at midday on 21 October 2026.[2][3] AHB said the cannabis had been left with him by a colleague in the same line of work.[2] Police said they were also trying to establish where the 15 kg was intended to be distributed.[2]