The misuse of subsidized fuel and/or fuel whose supply and distribution are assigned by the Government disrupts the targeting accuracy of energy policies and access for eligible consumers. This study analyzes the effectiveness of investigators’ role at Pohuwato Resort Police (Polres Pohuwato) in enforcement action against fuel misuse and the evidentiary obstacles involved. The study employed an empirical legal research method using a socio-legal approach and qualitative analysis. The primary data were derived from interviews with the Head of the Special Crimes Unit (Kanit Tipidter) at Pohuwato Resort Police (Polres Pohuwato), four police reports from January–February 2026, field observations, and legal materials. Effectiveness was operationalized across procedural, repressive, preventive, and coordinative dimensions and then mapped against legal factors, law-enforcement factors, facilities, societal factors, and legal culture. The findings indicate partial effectiveness. Procedural responses and coordination have been implemented, as reflected in the four reports that reached the investigation stage; however, final repressive outcomes cannot yet be measured because the available materials do not contain information concerning P-21, case transfer, or judgments. The preventive effect has likewise not been optimal, as patterns of repeated purchases and modification of distribution equipment continue to be found. The principal obstacles concern support for legal metrology verification, laboratories, external experts, storage of liquid physical evidence, and technical coordination. Strengthening case handling should therefore focus on measurable investigation performance indicators, integration of recommendation letter data, technical support for proof, and cross-agency oversight of distribution.
