Padangsidimpuan Police Narcotics Unit's Strategy in Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking in Padangsidimpuan City

Abstract

Illicit drug trafficking is a form of crime that continues to develop and poses a serious threat to security, order, and the younger generation in Padangsidimpuan City. This situation demands an effective strategy from law enforcement officers, particularly the Narcotics Investigation Unit (Satresnarkoba) of the Padangsidimpuan Police, in combating narcotics crimes. This study aims to determine the strategies implemented by the Padangsidimpuan Police Narcotics Unit in combating narcotics illicit trafficking and to analyze the effectiveness of preventive and repressive strategies in suppressing the number of narcotics crimes. The research method used is empirical legal research with a sociological juridical approach. Data were obtained through interviews, observations, and literature studies which were then analyzed qualitatively. The results of the study indicate that the strategies implemented by the Padangsidimpuan Police Narcotics Unit are carried out through preventive efforts in the form of legal counseling, socialization of the dangers of narcotics to the community and students, and collaboration with relevant agencies and community leaders. In addition, repressive efforts are being implemented through investigations, arrests, the development of networks, and law enforcement against drug dealers and users. This strategy is considered quite effective in suppressing drug trafficking, although several obstacles remain, such as limited personnel, extensive drug trafficking networks, and low public participation in providing information. Therefore, increased synergy between law enforcement officials, local governments, and the community is needed to create a more effective and sustainable response to drug crime.