Malang, en.SERU.co.id — Cross-border narcotics smuggling cases that use the tactic of entrusting packages to airline crew or fellow passengers have drawn serious attention from aviation authorities.
In response to the recent arrest of a Malaysian airline pilot who was caught carrying banned substances after accepting an entrusted package, the management of Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport in Malang has issued a firm appeal to the public and all air travelers.
Purwo Cahyo Widhiatmoko, Head of UPT Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport, stressed that passengers must never compromise security by agreeing to carry items for anyone else. This applies whether the request comes from someone they know only casually or from a complete stranger.
“The case of the Malaysian pilot who faced legal trouble for bringing ecstasy that came from an entrusted package should serve as an expensive lesson for all of us, especially those who use air transport. Never accept any package from another person to take on board a plane unless you know exactly what is inside and have verified it yourself,” Cahyo said on Wednesday.
He explained that in aviation, full legal responsibility for items brought into the cabin or checked baggage rests solely with the ticket holder or the person carrying those items through security and customs checks. Narcotics syndicates frequently exploit people’s carelessness or reluctance to refuse requests in order to move illegal goods across international borders.
Cahyo also urged every passenger to keep a close watch on their belongings at all times, both inside and outside the airport. Travelers should make sure their bags contain only their own personal items, are packed by themselves from home, and hold nothing dangerous or prohibited.
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“We ask all passengers to take simple preventive steps. Do not feel awkward or hesitant about refusing a request to carry something for someone else, including fellow passengers in the terminal or on the plane,” he added.
If anyone tries to force a package on them or behaves suspiciously, passengers should immediately report the matter to airport security officers (Avsec) or Indonesian Air Force personnel. Anyone who spots an unattended or suspicious item is advised not to touch it and to alert airport staff at once.
“Awareness and vigilance remain our strongest defense. Let us work together to keep flights safe, comfortable, and free from the threat of banned goods by always taking responsibility for our own belongings,” Cahyo concluded. (dik/ono)
Indonesian Version:
