The Role of the Pohuwato Police in Combating Criminal Acts of Transporting Subsidized Fuel Oil

Analisis peran kepolisian dan hambatan penegakan hukum di Kabupaten Pohuwato

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of the Pohuwato Resort Police in combating the crime of transporting subsidized fuel oil and to identify the factors that hinder law enforcement against the misuse of subsidized fuel oil in Pohuwato Regency. The study uses an empirical legal method with a legislative approach and a sociological approach. Primary data were obtained through interviews and observations within the jurisdiction of the Pohuwato Resort Police, while secondary data were obtained from laws and regulations, criminal law literature, journals, police documents, and related news. The results indicate that the misuse of subsidized fuel oil occurs through repeat purchases at gas stations, the use of modified vehicle tanks, the use of certain vehicles to store large amounts of fuel, the misuse of business recommendations, the transportation of diesel fuel by trucks, and the retail sale of Pertalite and diesel above the official price. Data from the Pohuwato Police Tipidter Unit show one report in 2021, seven in 2022, and three in 2023. The police role is carried out through promotive, preventive, and repressive efforts, including legal counseling, empowering Bhabinkamtibmas (community police officers), distribution supervision, patrols, personnel deployment at vulnerable points, inspections, confiscations, arrests, inquiries, and prosecutions. Key obstacles include limited law enforcement, low public participation, a culture of bribery, misuse of recommendations, lack of transparency at gas stations, the use of modified tanks, and limited expertise in the region. Strengthening coordination between the police, local governments, gas stations, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas), and the community is emphasized to ensure more targeted distribution of subsidized fuel and effective law enforcement.