Chinese National Arrested in Nickel Smuggling Attempt at Weda Bay Industrial Park

Security Breach at Strategic Mineral Facility

A Chinese national identified as MY was apprehended by the Integrated Task Force at the PT Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) airport on Friday, December 5, 2025. The suspect was attempting to smuggle nickel powder on a Super Air Jet flight from Weda Bay (WDB) to Manado (MDC). The confiscated materials included 5 packs of mixed nickel powder and 4 packs of pure nickel powder.

Enhanced Security Measures Implemented

The incident occurred despite the presence of security measures at the industrial park's dedicated airport, which has been operational since 2019. Following government evaluations that revealed deficiencies in meeting minimum state apparatus requirements, an Integrated Task Force was deployed on November 29, 2025. This task force comprises multiple agencies including TNI, Customs, Immigration, Police, and various quarantine services.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The suspect is currently being processed by relevant authorities while the confiscated mineral materials are undergoing further examination. The successful interception demonstrates the effectiveness of the newly implemented security measures at the industrial park's airport.