BALINEWSID.COM, MEDAN — A large-scale joint raid involving correctional officers, military personnel, armed Mobile Brigade (Brimob) police, and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) was conducted at Medan Class I Detention Center on Friday (Sept. 18, 2026), from the afternoon into the evening.

The operation was directly led by Jalu Yuswa Panjang, head of the North Sumatra Regional Office of Corrections. The raid was conducted as part of the authorities’ commitment to preventing violations inside the detention facility and in response to negative reports circulating on social media.

During the operation, joint personnel searched cells and residential blocks occupied by inmates. All 500 inmates at the facility were also required to undergo urine tests to detect possible drug use.

Head of Medan Class I Detention Center Andi Surya said the raid was part of the facility’s efforts to eradicate prohibited items, particularly narcotics and the unauthorized circulation of mobile phones.

“Today’s operation is a follow-up to our commitment to eradicate all forms of prohibited items inside the detention center, particularly narcotics and the circulation of mobile phones,” Andi said.

He added that the operation was carried out in accordance with directives from the Minister of Immigration and Corrections and the head of the North Sumatra Regional Office of Corrections.

The joint operation involved 40 personnel from the North Sumatra Police Mobile Brigade and Gegana unit, 20 military personnel from the Army’s engineering unit (Zipur), 15 personnel from the local military district command (Koramil), and 15 officers from the Medan Helvetia Police.

Authorities found four mobile phones during the search, consisting of two Android smartphones and two basic mobile phones. No narcotics were found during the inspection.

Meanwhile, urine tests conducted by three BNN North Sumatra personnel showed that all 500 inmates tested negative for narcotics.

Andi said the detention center would continue to enforce regulations and take firm action against inmates involved in violations, particularly drug-related offenses and the smuggling of mobile phones.

“We will not provide any room for criminal activities inside the detention center. All inmates must follow the rules and use their time here to change for the better,” Andi said.