Keep the Tradition of Meugang Comfortable, West Aceh Regency Takes Action against Meat Stall Toll English:

JAKARTA - The Meugang tradition in Aceh has always been a moment to be looked forward to to gather and enjoy meat dishes with the family. However, the cheerfulness of the meat traders at the Meulaboh Bina Usaha Market Complex was disturbed by the practice of illegal levies (pungli) which reached Rp. 350 thousand per stall.

Responding to the complaint, the West Aceh Regency Government together with the Saber Pungli Team of the West Aceh Police immediately intervened to trace the individuals who burdened these small traders.

The news of this pungli surfaced after traders complained about additional quotes in the name of certain villages or youth groups. In fact, every trader has fulfilled the obligation to pay official levies to the local government of Rp. 200 thousand per stall.

"This collection is very large, even though the profit from selling fresh meat during Meugang is very little. We ask for the government's firmness and the police," said the Chairman of the West Aceh Meat Traders Association, Rustam Efendi.

The Regent of West Aceh, Tarmizi, while conducting a sudden inspection (sidak) with the Acting Head of the West Aceh District Office, Dr. Kurdi, emphasized that the practice of gangsterism had no place in the market.

"We received reports that there were people who asked for rations of up to Rp. 350 thousand. There must be no more gangsterism. If someone asks without an official recommendation from the head of the sub-district or regent, it must be fought against," said Tarmizi on Wednesday (18/3).

The local government together with the Saber Pungli Team is now giving a stern warning. Anyone who is proven to have committed this illegal collection practice will immediately face legal proceedings.

This firm step was taken so that the price of meat at the consumer level remains stable and does not soar due to the "stealth" operating costs borne by traders. For the public or traders who find similar irregularities, it is recommended to:

Ask for Official Proof: Always ask for official letters of assignment or receipts from the local government.

Report to the Officer: Don't hesitate to report acts of intimidation to the nearest security post or market officer.

With this strict supervision, it is hoped that this year's Meugang celebration will continue to run smoothly without the shadow of gangsterism.