Indonesian Drug Lord Ko Erwin Captured After Attempted Escape to Malaysia

Jakarta – Erwin Iskandar, too known as Ko Erwin, a notorious drug lord allegedly involved in bribing high-ranking police officials, has been apprehended by Indonesian authorities after a failed attempt to flee to Malaysia. The arrest marks a significant development in a case that has shaken the Indonesian National Police.

Arrest and Capture Details

Ko Erwin was captured on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, as he attempted to board a vessel bound for Malaysia VIVA.co.id. He was apprehended by a joint team from the National Narcotics Agency (Bareskrim Polri) and the NIC Task Force. During the arrest, Ko Erwin reportedly resisted and was shot in the leg VIVA.co.id. He arrived at Bareskrim Polri headquarters in Jakarta on Friday, February 27, 2026, in handcuffs and requiring a wheelchair Kompas.com.

Allegations of Bribery

Ko Erwin is accused of paying Rp 2.8 billion (approximately $183,000 USD) to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro to facilitate his drug trafficking operations in Bima City Tribun Medan. The funds were allegedly transferred through AKP Malaungi, the former head of the Bima City Police Narcotics Unit.

Investigation and DPO Status

The investigation into Ko Erwin’s activities began with a probe into drug abuse cases involving AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and AKP Malaungi VIVA.co.id. Ko Erwin was placed on the wanted list (DPO) on February 26, 2026, and a nationwide search was launched Merdeka.com.

Assistance During Escape Attempt

Authorities have identified two individuals, identified as A alias G and R alias K, who allegedly assisted Ko Erwin in his attempt to escape to Malaysia VIVA.co.id. A alias G facilitated Erwin’s travel to Tanjung Balai, while R alias K arranged a ship for the journey, reportedly contacted by an individual known as “The Doctor.”

Current Status

Ko Erwin is currently in custody at Bareskrim Polri headquarters, where he is being questioned regarding his involvement in drug trafficking and bribery. AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonorably discharged from the National Police as a result of the investigation VIVA.co.id.