Law Enforcement in The Investigation Process of Criminal Acts of Illegal Distribution of Narcotics (Case Study of The Barelang City Resort Police)

Abstract

This research is motivated by the importance of law enforcement in the investigation process of illicit narcotics trafficking offenses to ensure legal certainty, justice, and societal benefit. Illicit narcotics trafficking is an organized crime with extensive adverse impacts on social life, public health, the economy, and national security. This study aims to analyze the implementation of law enforcement in the investigation process of illicit narcotics trafficking offenses and to examine the obstacles encountered and the measures taken to address them at the Barelang Resort City Police. This study employs an empirical juridical research method using statutory, case, and conceptual approaches with a descriptive-analytical design. Primary data were obtained through interviews with investigators of the Narcotics Investigation Unit of the Barelang Resort City Police, while secondary data were collected through library research involving legislation, books, scientific journals, and other relevant literature. The data were analyzed qualitatively to produce systematic and scientifically accountable conclusions. The findings indicate that the implementation of law enforcement in the investigation process of illicit narcotics trafficking offenses at the Narcotics Investigation Unit of the Barelang Resort City Police has been carried out regularly and in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, beginning with the receipt of public information, preliminary investigation, arrest, search, seizure, examination of witnesses and suspects, forensic laboratory examination, case file preparation, and submission of the case to the public prosecutor. The obstacles encountered in the investigation process include legal factors, law enforcement personnel, facilities and infrastructure, community factors, and legal culture. Efforts to address these obstacles include optimizing the implementation of laws and regulations, enhancing investigators' competence, strengthening inter-agency coordination, improving investigative facilities and infrastructure, and increasing public participation and legal awareness. These measures are expected to promote an effective and professional investigation process that ensures legal certainty, justice, and societal benefit.