MEDAN, Indonesia — North Sumatra Police (Polda Sumut) have revealed preliminary findings indicating that alleged irregularities during fuel distribution may have contributed to the long queues and supply disruptions experienced at several gas stations, including in Karo Regency.
According to police officials, the investigation found indications that the volume of fuel delivered by tanker trucks to several filling stations was lower than the amount initially dispatched from fuel depots. Authorities suspect the discrepancy may have resulted from fraudulent practices during the transportation process, prompting a deeper investigation into the distribution chain.
Head of Operations Bureau of North Sumatra Police, Senior Commissioner Dwi Tunggal Jaladri, said reports from gas station operators suggested measurable differences between the fuel volume loaded at depots and the quantity received upon arrival at service stations. Police are currently gathering additional evidence to determine how the discrepancies occurred and identify those responsible.
The alleged distribution irregularities emerged amid widespread reports of long vehicle queues at gas stations across North Sumatra over recent days. While authorities continue to investigate, officials emphasized that ensuring stable fuel distribution remains a top priority to prevent further disruption to public services and economic activities.
Law enforcement agencies are coordinating with Pertamina and other stakeholders to strengthen monitoring of fuel deliveries and improve transparency throughout the distribution network. The investigation is expected to determine whether the suspected irregularities were isolated incidents or part of a broader pattern affecting fuel supplies in the region.
Fuel distribution has become a major public concern in North Sumatra following reports of lengthy queues at numerous filling stations in Medan, Deli Serdang, Karo, and several surrounding regencies. The situation prompted both regional authorities and state-owned energy company Pertamina to implement measures aimed at restoring normal fuel deliveries.
Earlier this week, North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution stated that distribution challenges had been linked to disruptions involving tanker truck drivers, while Pertamina also reported increasing fuel demand alongside efforts to accelerate deliveries by adding transportation resources. Authorities continue working to normalize supply while preventing panic buying among consumers.
Industry observers note that maintaining strict oversight throughout the fuel logistics chain is essential to ensuring public confidence. Technologies such as digital tanker tracking, automated volume verification, and electronic delivery monitoring are increasingly being adopted to improve accountability and minimize the risk of losses during transportation.
Officials have urged the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary fuel purchases while investigations continue. Consumers are also encouraged to rely on verified information released by government agencies and Pertamina regarding fuel availability and distribution updates.
