LAW ENFORCEMENT AGAINST THE MODUS OPERANDI OF HYDROPONIC MARIJUANA CULTIVATION IN DENSELY RESIDENTIAL AREAS IN THE JURISDICTION OF THE BALI REGIONAL POLICE

Abstract

The development of narcotics crimes has significantly changed not only in illegal trafficking but also in cultivation methods utilizing modern agricultural technology. One emerging modus operandi is hydroponic cannabis cultivation conducted in densely populated residential areas. This method complicates law enforcement efforts because perpetrators employ legal agricultural equipment integrated with climate control systems, artificial lighting, irrigation, and CCTV surveillance.This empirical legal research aims to analyze law enforcement against hydroponic cannabis cultivation within the jurisdiction of Bali Regional Police and examine obstacles encountered during investigation and evidence collection. The research employs statutory, conceptual, and case approaches supported by interviews with investigators of the Bali Regional Police Narcotics Directorate.The findings indicate that law enforcement has been implemented under Law Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics and the Indonesian Criminal Procedure Code. Nevertheless, investigators still face substantial challenges involving sophisticated cultivation technology, limited detection equipment, weak public participation, and complex evidentiary processes associated with transnational narcotics networks. Strengthening digital forensic capabilities, improving inter-agency coordination, and enhancing community participation are necessary to improve future law enforcement effectiveness.