RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – An illegal alcohol raid in Tulungagung led police to seize hundreds of bottles of unlicensed liquor on Saturday night (Feb. 21). The action came as authorities intensified Ramadan security operations across the town.
Officers from Tulungagung Police carried out a large-scale patrol in the town center and nearby areas. During the operation, they targeted businesses suspected of selling alcohol without permits during the holy month.
Nanang Murdiyanto, head of public relations for Tulungagung Police, said the patrol aimed to prevent public disturbances while enforcing licensing laws.
“This is part of maintaining public security. Therefore, we want residents to observe Ramadan safely and comfortably,” he said.
Joint patrol teams inspected several stalls and cafés near downtown Tulungagung. As a result, officers found illegal alcohol sales at three locations and confiscated various beverages.
At Ajuma stall, police seized 12 bottles of 600-ml arak and three 1.5-liter arak bottles. In addition, they confiscated three Bintang beers, three API bottles, and three Kawa-Kawa bottles. Officers also took two Alexis bottles, two Atlas bottles, and one Guinness bottle.
At Bojeezz stall, officers confiscated 10 Bintang beers and five Singaraja beers. They also seized four Dunkel beers, five Guinness bottles, and three Orang Tua bottles.
The largest seizure occurred at Lumintu coffee shop. There, police secured 38 bottles of G26 liquor and two 620-ml Atlas bottles. They also found two 620-ml Singaraja bottles and one 620-ml API bottle. In addition, officers seized partially filled bottles labeled McDonald and Vibe Black Tea.
Afterward, authorities transported all evidence to Tulungagung Police headquarters for legal processing. Business owners selling unlicensed alcohol will therefore face charges under existing regulations.
Nanang said enforcement against illegal alcohol distribution will continue throughout Ramadan. Police will also expand routine patrols to deter street racing, fireworks misuse, and street crime.
He also urged residents to support community safety during the fasting month.
“Security is not only the police’s duty, but a shared responsibility,” he said.