Indonesian officials have pulled off one of the nation’s largest drug busts, intercepting a foreign-flagged vessel carrying 1.3 tons of ketamine. Acting on intelligence that had been gathered since February, the National Narcotics Agency monitored the MV King Sun as it traveled from Thailand. A navy warship eventually intercepted the ship as it entered Indonesian waters near the Riau Islands. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 65 sacks of the illicit substance hidden onboard, with a street value estimated at roughly $116 million.

Eight crew members—seven from Myanmar and one from Taiwan—are currently in custody as investigators work to determine the origin and intended destination of the shipment. While ketamine is medically recognized as a fast-acting anesthetic, it is strictly regulated in Indonesia due to its widespread abuse as a recreational party drug. This major operation follows a string of significant drug enforcement actions in the country, including the recent seizure of over three tons of cannabis and a previous bust involving 2.5 tons of methamphetamine, highlighting Indonesia’s ongoing battle against international narcotics trafficking.