Riau Team Probes Sumatran Tiger Village Sighting

RRI.CO.ID, Pekanbaru - The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) has responded to public reports regarding the sighting of a Sumatran tiger in Benteng Hulu Village, Mempura Subdistrict, Siak Regency, which occurred last Friday, February 6, 2026.

Supartono, Head of Riau BBKSDA, remarked that the initial report was received at 10 p.m. Jakarta time. In response, the agency immediately dispatched a team from the Siak Resort to conduct wildlife conflict mitigation at the scene.

"Upon receiving the community report, our team promptly went to the field to verify the sighting, coordinate with local authorities, and implement mitigation steps to prevent human-wildlife conflict," explained Supartono on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

Based on field investigations, the team gathered testimony from a resident who witnessed a shadow near a goat pen on Friday night around 8 p.m. Jakarta time. Furthermore, local CCTV footage captured a Sumatran tiger passing by at 9:30 a.m. Jakarta time, moving toward the PT Eks Darpari plantation area.

"From the CCTV footage and tracks found on-site, we estimate the animal to be a sub-adult Sumatran tiger," clarified Supartono.

He added that in another location, the team found strong indications of the tiger's presence near the residence of a citizen named Nanang. Tiger footprints measuring approximately 12 centimeters were discovered along with scattered chicken feathers. 

This discovery is strongly suspected to be linked to the disappearance of two chickens and a kitten belonging to the resident.

"Preliminary identification confirms Sumatran tiger activity near residential areas. However, as of now, the camera traps we installed have yet to record a visual of the animal," he noted.

Supartono mentioned that Riau BBKSDA has added another camera trap at a new vantage point and is utilizing drones to expand the surveillance range. Additionally, the agency has issued a formal warning to the public to increase their vigilance.

"We urge residents not to engage in activities alone during the animal's active hours. Furthermore, ensure that livestock are placed in tightly closed pens and covered with tarpaulin or zinc plates to obstruct the predator's view," he advised.

Currently, Riau BBKSDA continues to conduct intensive monitoring at the site. Supartono also requested that the public immediately report to village officials or BBKSDA officers should they find any further signs of the tiger.

"Community safety is our priority, but we also remain committed to the protection of this endangered species," concluded Supartono. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)