Recently in Medan, North Sumatra, the police shot down a suspect identified only by the initials RIZ when he reportedly resisted arrest. BNN officers also seized three 9 mm bullets that, according to Budi, belonged to service weapons used by the police or the military.

"As they are now using weapons, we will also counter them with weapons. If the drug dealers fight back [during arrest] we will not hesitate to take them down. If they are killed [because they retaliate], it's their own fault," Budi said on Tuesday.

(Read also: Rehabilitation should be first priority in handling drug users, says minister)

Drug-trafficking networks’ use of sophisticated weapons has been apparent in a string of arrests since late last year, Budi claimed. As an example he cited a raid in Tangerang, Banten, last November when the two suspects were killed after reportedly attempting to flee. The BNN later confiscated guns from them.

"We have to take stern action because [drug traffickers] are the destroyers of the nation's future generations. Besides, we have also been equipped with new lethal weapons by the government," Budi said.

Following the government's declaration of war on drug abuse, BNN personnel have been equipped with powerful firearms and reportedly are now authorized to shoot suspects who resist arrest. (bbs)

Popular

RI, Australia strengthen partnership on taxing crypto assets

Analysis: Indonesia denies normalization with Israel to enter OECD

Citroen to produce electric cars in Indonesia