The circulation of illegal cigarettes or cigarettes without excise in Indonesia has become increasingly massive lately amidst the increasing price of excise cigarettes. Tobacco lovers in Indonesia, most of whom come from the lower middle class, find it increasingly difficult to buy official excise cigarettes because the price continues to increase following the high excise price.
On the other hand, people's purchasing power is decreasing because the cost of living is increasing while income is decreasing and many have lost their jobs. Even in poverty, when various other needs such as fulfilling children's nutrition or health or education needs, are considered to be able to wait. Meanwhile, the urge for the pleasure of nicotine must be met immediately.
It is not surprising that even though there is no money, the need for cigarettes must be met. This condition makes smokers switch to illegal cigarettes which are more affordable. The price disparity is so great that having excise-free cigarettes, especially with a taste that is not much different.
Indonesia is a paradise for tobacco lovers. This condition is exploited by parties who make a profit by harming the state, distributing excise-free shops.
The state and citizens are harmed. However, here only trade law applies, there is a market so production continues even though it violates the law.
Suspects have often been arrested and processed, but the practice of selling illegal cigarettes has never stopped. This is because the profits are high so that many parties are tempted, including allegedly the authorities also playing a role.
This media, for example, has had difficulty several times getting confirmation from Customs who seemed to give special treatment to the examination of a seller of cigarettes without excise. Instead of calling the relevant party, Customs officers came to Kuala Namu Airport, Medan, to examine the alleged seller of illegal cigarettes.
This decision gave the impression of special treatment for people suspected of breaking the law. Several attempts at confirmation that were made did not get the appropriate response and even seemed to be avoided, until finally confirmation was made in writing.
The alleged involvement of state officials makes the problem of the circulation of cigarettes without excise difficult to eradicate completely. In several areas in Aceh, the involvement of security forces is an open secret. This is also what causes the raids that are often carried out, not very effective in ensnaring the sellers. Maybe they had received news beforehand so they could secure the cigarettes.
From several cases that were arrested, no further legal process was heard. The many cases that evaporate without trial in court and the defendants receive punishment, fail to create a deterrent effect.
The case that occurred in Simpang Kelana, Kualasimpng Village, Aceh Tamiang, should be a slap in the face for state officials. The circulation of 164 boxes of illegal Abi brand cigarettes was actually thwarted by the community before being handed over to Customs.
Where is the authority of state officials when the community must intervene to eradicate the circulation of illegal cigarettes?[
