RRI.CO.ID, Kendari – A major blow has been dealt to illegal wildlife trafficking in Southeast Sulawesi following a joint operation that intercepted nearly 200 endemic birds bound for Surabaya. Southeast Sulawesi Quarantine Agency, in collaboration with the National Police Headquarters' Water and Air Police, successfully thwarted the smuggling attempt on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

The seizure took place during a routine maritime patrol in the waters surrounding Kendari Port. A. Azhar, Head of the Quarantine Agency, confirmed on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, that the birds were being transported without any legal documentation, specifically lacking health certificates and domestic wildlife transport permits (SAT-DN).

"This synergy reflects our shared commitment with relevant agencies to protect Sulawesi from the threat of quarantine animal diseases, which could significantly harm the public,"  said Azhar, as quoted by Antara.

Detailed identification of the 193 seized birds revealed a staggering 182 protected birds, including 22 Sulawesi Crows and 160 Yellow-and-Green Lorikeets. Additionally, officials recovered 10 Ornate Lorikeets and one Sulawesi Koel.

The condition of the animals upon discovery was described as distressing. Ten birds had already perished due to poor transport conditions, while five others were found in critical health.

Beyond the violation of conservation laws, the unregulated movement of these birds poses a severe biosecurity risk. Officials warned that undocumented avian traffic could facilitate the spread of dangerous diseases, such as Avian Influenza, throughout the Southeast Sulawesi region.

Abdul Rachman, Head of the Quarantine Enforcement Team, emphasized that the smuggling attempt constitutes a serious legal violation. The perpetrators face charges under Article 88 in conjunction with Article 35 of Law Number 21/2019 regarding Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine.

"The criminal penalties are substantial, carrying a maximum prison sentence of two years and a fine of up to IDR 2 billion (approximately USD 125,000)," he explained.

The surviving birds are currently being held at the quarantine office for laboratory testing to ensure they are disease-free. Once their health is verified, the animals will be handed over to the appropriate authorities to be released back into their natural habitats.

Azhar urged both the public and business actors to adhere to biological commodity regulations. He stressed that legal compliance is vital for the preservation of Indonesia's natural resources. ***