Medan. The Mayor of Medan, Rico Waas, emphasized that nightclubs proven to be locations for drug trafficking and those lacking complete permits must face firm action.

This was stated by Rico Waas after the sealing of the Phantom KTV nightclub on Jalan Adam Malik, Medan, on Wednesday (June 3, 2026).

“It is truly regrettable. This is the second time we have been present with the City Police Chief at a nightclub that turned out to be a location for drug transactions. Such things must not happen in Medan City,” said Rico Waas.

Rico Waas explained that besides drug trafficking practices, inspections also found that several business permits for Phantom KTV were incomplete. These include lacking a restaurant and bar permit and not fulfilling tax obligations.

“The Medan City Government supports business development, but all permits must be fulfilled. Moreover, such businesses must not become places for drug transactions that harm the community,” he asserted.

He added that the Medan City Government, together with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum, continues to combat drug trafficking. For this reason, a notice of temporary operational suspension has been posted until all permits are fulfilled.

“We have posted a notice stating that this business cannot operate until all required permits are fulfilled, including its tax obligations,” he said during an event also attended by the Commander of District Military Command 0201, Lieutenant Colonel Armament Delli Yudha Adi Nurcahyo.

Meanwhile, the Medan City Police Chief, Senior Commissioner Jean Calvijn Simanjuntak, explained that the case was uncovered on May 23, 2026. From this operation, police named two suspects: an employee acting as an ecstasy dealer inside Phantom KTV and one drug supplier.

Additionally, six other people underwent rehabilitation after urine tests showed positive results for drugs. They consisted of three Phantom KTV employees and three others detained at a different location during case development.

“Based on examination results, there are statements indicating that management knew about drug trafficking at that entertainment venue. Investigation and network expansion are still ongoing,” said Calvijn.

In the joint operation, the Belawan Customs and Excise also found suspected violations in the excise sector, involving the circulation of alcoholic beverages without permits and suspected use of counterfeit excise stamps, which are still under investigation.

Rico Waas asserted that the Medan City Government, together with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum, will continue to strengthen supervision of nightclubs to prevent similar violations.

“We do not want such illegal activities to happen again in Medan City. We also invite the public to report any illegal activities they encounter,” he concluded.

Phantom KTV

Phantom KTV is a well-known karaoke establishment in Singapore, famous for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment offerings. It gained significant attention in the early 2000s as a popular spot for social gatherings, but its history also includes a notorious association with a major police raid in 2012 that uncovered illegal activities, leading to its temporary closure and subsequent rebranding. Despite this, Phantom KTV remains a notable part of Singapore’s entertainment scene, reflecting the city’s dynamic club culture.

Jalan Adam Malik

Jalan Adam Malik is a major thoroughfare in Jakarta, Indonesia, named after Adam Malik, the country’s third Vice President and a prominent figure in its early independence movement. The street is located in a central business district, known for hosting various corporate offices, embassies, and luxury hotels. Its development reflects Jakarta’s rapid modernization from the late 20th century onward, transforming from a quieter residential area into a bustling hub of commerce and diplomacy.

Medan

Medan is the capital of North Sumatra, Indonesia, and serves as a major economic and cultural hub. Its history is deeply tied to the rise of the tobacco and rubber plantations in the late 19th century under Dutch colonial rule, which attracted a diverse population of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European settlers. This multicultural heritage is reflected in Medan’s landmarks, such as the grand Maimun Palace and the Great Mosque of Medan.