CNN Indonesia: Indonesian Navy Seizes Ships Loaded with Methamphetamine and Cocaine

Rigaku CQL Max-ID Accelerates Drug Identification in TNI AL’s Historic 1.9-Ton Narcotics Seizure

In mid-May 2025, the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) successfully intercepted a massive drug smuggling operation in the waters of Selat Durian, Riau Islands. A suspicious Thai-flagged fishing vessel, Aungtoetoe 99, was stopped by TNI AL patrols after it was observed carrying no fish or fishing equipment.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered an astonishing 1.2 tons of cocaine and 705 kilograms of methamphetamine (sabu), with an estimated street value of approximately IDR 7 trillion (about $440 million USD).

To confirm the identity of the substances quickly and safely, the Indonesian Navy utilized the Rigaku CQL Max-ID handheld 1064 nm Raman analyzer designed for rapid field identification of illicit drugs and chemical threats. This advanced analytical tool enabled real-time, on-site identification without the need to open packaging—minimizing exposure risk and preserving evidence integrity.

Advantages of Using Rigaku CQL Max-ID in the TNI AL Operation:

• Fast, Accurate Identification:
  The Rigaku CQL Max-ID rapidly identified both methamphetamine and cocaine within seconds, helping accelerate law enforcement actions.

• Through-Container Analysis:
  Its 1064 nm Raman technology allows scanning through transparent plastic, glass, and other common packaging materials—ensuring operators never had to open or directly handle the hazardous substances.

• Field-Ready Portability:
  Compact and rugged, the analyzer was easily deployed aboard patrol vessels in challenging marine environments.

• Extensive Onboard Library:
  Equipped with a comprehensive spectral database of narcotics and chemical threats, the device ensured confident, confirmatory analysis on the spot.

This case exemplifies how modern technology like the Rigaku CQL Max-ID empowers frontline responders and law enforcement to act quickly, safely, and decisively. By integrating such tools into their operations, the TNI AL reinforces its leadership in the fight against transnational drug trafficking.

Media Coverage of The Indonesian Navy Seizure

• Read more details about the seizure in this CNN Indonesia article: https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20250517100148-12-1230148/fakta-fakta-tni-al-tangkap-kapal-muatan-sabu-dan-kokain-hampir-2-ton
• See the Rigaku CQL Max-ID in action in this Instagram video from The Indonesian Navy: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJ64lk-v45d/ 

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Rigaku Analytical Devices.