PUBLIKA BABEL-The Bangka Belitung Regional Police (Polda Babel) has prohibited all police personnel and civil servants (ASN) within its organization from using electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vapes. The ban applies not only within police facilities but also outside the workplace.
The policy follows National Police Chief Circular Letter No. SE/9/X/2026 concerning the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette (Vape) Use within the Indonesian National Police. The regulation took effect upon its issuance on October 30, 2026.
Babel Regional Police Head of Public Relations, Police Commissioner Agus Sugiyarso, emphasized the institution’s commitment to implementing the directive.
“Polda Babel is ready to follow up on and implement the National Police Chief’s circular regarding the prohibition of vape use. All police personnel and civil servants across the Babel Regional Police, from headquarters to district and sector police stations, are required to comply with this regulation,” Sugiyarso said on Tuesday (November 3, 2026).
“We also urge the public not to use vapes within police facilities, including regional, district, and sector police offices,” he added.
Sugiyarso further explained that the ban is an internal preventive measure aimed at anticipating emerging methods of drug abuse.
One major concern is the potential misuse of vaping devices as a medium for consuming liquid narcotics. Etomidate is among the substances under scrutiny and has been classified as a Category II narcotic under Ministry of Health Regulation No. 15 of 2025.
“We must remain vigilant against evolving methods of drug abuse. Therefore, preventive measures must begin within our own institution,” he said.
“Police personnel, including civil servants within the National Police, must uphold discipline and integrity while setting a positive example for the public,” he added.
To ensure compliance, Polda Babel will intensify internal awareness campaigns and monitoring across all its units. Violations will be dealt with firmly.
“Any violations discovered will be followed up in accordance with the applicable regulations,” Sugiyarso stressed.
He added that the vape prohibition reflects the National Police’s commitment to combating drug abuse, not only through law enforcement but also by strengthening discipline and accountability within the institution.
“The commitment to fighting drugs must begin with ourselves and our immediate environment. Police personnel must set an example in maintaining discipline, professionalism, and integrity,” he concluded.(Bli)
